Scientist/Sr. Scientist, Chemical Biology

Overview General Proximity is a seed‑stage startup developing the next generation of induced proximity medicines (IPMs). Our OmniTAC drug discovery engine furnishes molecules that co‑opt existing cellular machinery to overcome therapeutic challenges that have remained unapproachable to other modalities for decades. The Position We are seeking an experienced chemical biologist with medicinal chemistry training to be a founding member of our Chemistry/Drug Discovery Team. Responsibilities include supervising synthetic efforts with our CROs, designing, performing, and analysing in‑cellulo assays, designing and optimizing first‑in‑class bifunctional molecules, collaborating with our Drug Discovery and IP team on patent applications, providing input for mechanistic studies on lead drug molecules, and spearheading forays into new disease areas. About You High Agency: Initiative, independence, and self‑accountability are valued traits. Enthusiastic: We love people who are excited about what they do and help build a high‑energy team. Intensity and Grit: Early‑stage startups are challenging, especially drug discovery. We look for candidates who can persist with complex problems over the long haul while having a supportive team. Prosocial: We are focused on creating life‑saving medicines for patients in greatest need, and you should share that commitment. Qualifications and Nice‑To‑Haves PhD in Chemical Biology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, or a related field. Chemical Biology with Medicinal Chemistry experience required. Industry experience is desirable, but the ability to work hard and learn fast is more important. Deep understanding of small‑molecule drug discovery and its relationship to human disease. Able to work fluently at the interface of chemistry and biology. Top‑notch written and oral communication skills. Strong experience with: Designing, synthesising, and optimizing induced proximity medicines (e.g., PROTACs or other IPMs) Contributing to hit‑to‑lead and lead optimisation studies Medicinal‑chemistry optimisations: SAR, PK/PD, strong understanding of DMPK Chemical‑biology techniques such as mammalian cell culture, cell‑based assays, co‑immunoprecipitation, and protein‑protein interaction assays (BRET, APEX/BioID, AlphaScreen) Nice to have: Proficiency in HTS and phenotypic assay development Proteomics experience: PTM analysis, chemo‑proteomic target deconvolution, etc. Computational or molecular‑dynamics drug discovery experience DEL experience Experience managing others, especially synthetic chemistry CRO teams Prior experience on teams that have successfully advanced research to the clinic Benefits Strong equity incentives to support ownership and project direction. Top‑tier medical, dental, and vision coverage with One Medical membership. 401(k) retirement plan. Education and health/fitness incentive programmes. Meditation retreats—do a ten‑day Vipassana retreat without it counting toward vacation days. Reading budget for books. Location in the MBC BioLabs at 135 Mississippi Street, an entrepreneurial hub in the Bay Area. EEO Statement We welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, women, and members of under‑represented minority groups. #J-18808-Ljbffr General Proximity