Senior Drug Discovery Scientist – VIB Discovery Sciences

About the role

VIB Discovery Sciences is seeking a senior drug discovery scientist to lead early‑stage small‑molecule projects and translate breakthrough research into therapeutic opportunities. The role bridges scientific research and valorisation, guiding programs from hit identification through early lead optimisation.

Key responsibilities

• Build and coordinate early‑stage small‑molecule discovery teams, defining strategy, prioritisation and go/no‑go decisions.
• Integrate computational methods such as structural modelling, cheminformatics and AI‑driven approaches into SAR analysis and programme decision‑making.
• Provide expert consultancy on discovery chemistry, assay design, hit expansion and hit‑to‑lead strategies, as well as basic pharmacology.
• Collaborate with VIB research groups, core facilities, external consultants and CROs to advance projects toward out‑licensing and venture creation.

Required profile

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a related discipline.
• 5–10 years of experience in small‑molecule drug discovery with proven project leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to apply computational approaches (structural modelling, cheminformatics, AI) alongside experimental validation.
• Strong collaborative skills to work with interdisciplinary teams and external partners.

Required skills

• Small‑molecule drug discovery
• Hit finding and lead optimisation
• Structure‑activity relationship (SAR) analysis
• Computational chemistry, structural modelling, cheminformatics, AI‑driven drug design
• Assay design and hit expansion
• Basic pharmacology