Director, Medicinal Chemistry

Director, Medicinal Chemistry

This position will serve as a leader of the Medicinal Chemistry department, including but not limited to oligonucleotides synthesis, extrahepatic delivery innovation, nucleic acid modification, and, working closely with subject matter experts across different line functions, including Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, supporting programs from Discovery to IND-enabling and early clinical development, ensuring scientific excellence, manufacturability, and regulatory readiness. The Director, Medicinal Chemistry, will report to the Chief Executive Officer. The Director will have direct line managerial responsibility for other Scientists and Research Associates.

Technology & Medicinal Chemistry

• Oligonucleotide (DNA/RNA) synthesis, purification, analysis and formulation as needed
• Lead optimization of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) chemistry, including backbone, sugar, and conjugation strategies.
• Drive structure–activity relationship (SAR) efforts to improve potency, specificity, safety, and therapeutic index of the platform technology.
• Establish scalable synthetic processes for modified oligonucleotides and conjugates.

Extrahepatic Delivery

• Develop and implement strategies for tissue-selective delivery beyond the liver (e.g., kidney, CNS, muscle, lung ).
• Evaluate and integrate novel targeting platforms and conjugation technologies.
• Align chemistry and delivery approaches with in vivo pharmacology and translational goals.

Leadership & Strategy

• Build and lead high-performing multidisciplinary teams in chemistry and delivery with a passion for developing transformative RNA medicines in a collaborative team environment.
• Contribute to corporate strategy as a member of the executive leadership team.
• Support regulatory interactions, partnerships, and scientific communication with investors and advisory boards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of industry experience in oligonucleotide therapeutics with progressive leadership roles.
• Proven track record advancing antisense or related RNA therapeutic candidates toward clinical development.
• Deep expertise and strong hands-on experience in modified oligonucleotide synthesis, chemistry, conjugation/delivery approaches, analytical characterization, and CMC strategy.
• Experience with extrahepatic delivery solutions.
• Proven experience with building, developing, and leading scientific teams with excellent communications skills with the ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Demonstrated strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, innovative environment with an emphasis on quality and teamwork.

What we offer

• Health Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance
• Industry-competitive compensation
• Annual performance-based bonus
• Stock options
• 401K plan with employer match
• Career advancement opportunities
• Weekly town halls to share business and scientific updates

We are not sponsoring employment visas currently

Arnatar Therapeutics is an EEOC Employer

Notice to agencies: Arnatar Therapeutics will not accept unsolicited assistance from recruiting/search agencies for this employment opportunity.

Pay: $150,000 - $200,000 per year

Schedule: Full-time

Work Location: Onsite, Sorrento Valley, San Diego