Acerand Therapeutics Ltd is a biotech with a very seasoned team based in Shanghai and Indianapolis focusing on innovative small molecule drug discovery and development, with 2 leading assets at clinical stage. We are seeking an Associate Director/Senior Director of MedChem (based in Shanghai) to join us. If you have interest in this position and are determined to make life better for people, please send your CV and contact information to career@acerand.com.

Major Responsibilities including but not limited to:

• Lead small molecule drug discovery programs from lead identification, optimization to candidate nomination:
• Design novel molecules using SAR analysis to improve potency, selectivity, and developability.
• Apply structure-based drug design and computational chemistry tools to guide drug design.
• Manage external chemistry CRO collaborations.
• Collaborate closely with DMPK, biology, formulation and Toxicology teams to improve drug developability.
• Document research records, author patent applications and reports, FTO analysis, and present to internal and external audiences.
• Able or with the great potential to act as Project Lead to drive the pipeline asset to IND filing.
• Stay abreast of scientific advances in medicinal chemistry techniques and disease treatment to explore new target opportunities.
• Present projects for internal review and to external business partners.

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or related field.
• At least 5 years of small molecule drug discovery experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry.
• Strong SAR design and ADMET problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with computational chemistry software (e.g., Schrödinger MOE, or other CADD tools).
• Excellent multitasking, team collaboration, and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and scientifically rigorous.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in targeted oncology and metabolic disease drug discovery, with knowledge of major mechanisms and targets.
• Demonstrated strong leadership in cross-functional or international project teams.
• Solid understanding of the following drug discovery areas:
• Structure-based drug design
• SAR-driven lead optimization
• DMPK problem solving capability
• Computational chemistry tools and methods
• Strong track record of publications, patents, or scientific presentations.
• Experiences of leading projects from hits/lead, to preclinic candidate (PCC) and IND submission.
• Fluent English writing and oral communication.