Associate Director, Medicinal Chemistry Project & External Operations Manager

Cytokinetics · South San Francisco, CA

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ResearchFull-time$205k–$240kCompany career page

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Role summary

Cytokinetics seeks an experienced medicinal chemist to lead discovery projects and manage external chemistry partnerships. The role combines hands-on scientific leadership of cardiovascular and neuromuscular programs with strategic oversight of CRO relationships and external operations.

What they're looking for

Ph.D. in Organic or Medicinal Chemistry with 10+ years pharmaceutical/biotech drug discovery experience
Demonstrated leadership of multidisciplinary projects from hit-to-lead through candidate nomination
Hands-on expertise in compound design, synthetic strategy, and SAR-driven lead optimization
Deep knowledge of CRO landscape, capabilities, and limitations across domestic and international partners
Proven experience managing external chemistry teams and multiple concurrent discovery programs
Track record setting expectations with vendors and stakeholders to drive productivity improvements
Experience evaluating vendors and conducting comparative pilot studies

What you'll be doing

Lead chemistry strategy and timelines for one or more cardiovascular and neuromuscular discovery programs
Own CRO strategic direction, performance goals, and accountability metrics across chemistry partnerships
Establish KPIs and governance structures to monitor and improve CRO productivity and quality
Provide scientific guidance on synthetic routes, compound design, and SAR optimization to internal and external teams
Assess prospective CRO vendors, design pilot studies, and make recommendations on selection and onboarding

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