Scientist II, Discovery Chemistry and Automation (Parallel Synthesis)

About the Role...

We are seeking a highly motivated synthetic chemist to join our drug discovery team, with a focus on design, synthesis, and optimization of compound libraries. This role will play a critical part in advancing programs from hit identification through lead optimization by enabling rapid and efficient exploration of chemical space.

You will work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment to design and execute singleton and library syntheses integrated into our closed-loop design (CLD) strategies, leveraging modern synthetic methodologies, automation, and computational tools to accelerate discovery.

What Youll Do

Your primary areas of responsibility will be:

• Design, prioritize, and execute focused and diverse compound libraries to address SAR hypotheses and project needs
• Develop and implement parallel synthesis strategies to enable rapid library generation and iteration
• Design and optimize synthetic routes that allow efficient diversification and scalability
• Collaborate closely with Medicinal Chemistry, In vitro Pharmacology, Biology, DMPK, ML/AI, and Chemistry Data Science teams to guide compound design
• Apply structureactivity relationship (SAR) insights to drive compound optimization
• Utilize modern approaches such as high-throughput experimentation (HTE)
• Perform compound synthesis, purification, and characterization (e.g., NMR, LC-MS) of intermediates for library synthesis on 1-5g scale
• Document experimental work and communicate results through presentations and reports

What You Bring

• Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or related field (or M.S. with 46+ years, B.S. with 68+ years relevant experience)
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry within a drug discovery setting
• Demonstrated experience in compound library design and synthesis
• Proven ability to solve complex synthetic challenges
• Hands-on experience with standard analytical techniques (NMR, LC-MS, HPLC)

You May Also Bring

• Experience with parallel synthesis, library enumeration, reaction screening, or automated chemistry platforms
• Understanding of ADME/PK and physicochemical property optimization
• Experience collaborating with or managing CRO partners
• Track record of scientific impact (publications, patents, or project contributions)
• Experience or familiarity with AI/ML-driven molecular design, cheminformatics tools, or >

  Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidates qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Valo Health currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on Valo Health's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.

  Please note: At this time, we are only able to consider candidates who currentlyhave permanent US work authorization without the need for immediate or future sponsorship.