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Head Of Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orum Therapeutics

Head of Chemistry

Lexington, MA · On-site

Orum Therapeutics is seeking a highly accomplished chemistry leader to head our Chemistry function ... Own the strategic and scientific direction of the chemistry organization, spanning synthetic ...

Orum Therapeutics

Head of Chemistry

Lexington, MA · On-site

Orum Therapeutics is seeking a highly accomplished chemistry leader to head our Chemistry function ... Own the strategic and scientific direction of the chemistry organization, spanning synthetic ...

Integratedcooling

Head of Chemistry

Lexington, MA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Orum Therapeutics is seeking a highly accomplished chemistry leader to head our Chemistry function ... Own the strategic and scientific direction of the chemistry organization, spanning synthetic ...

10x Genomics

P-3320 Head of Chemistry

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$235K - $328K/yr

Head of Chemistry Pleasanton, California About the Role, Who you are: We are looking for a world-class scientist to lead Chemistry research and development at 10x Genomics. The ideal candidate will ...

Sashco Inc

Head of Chemistry R&D

Thornton, CO · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Are you deep in polymer chemistry? Do you like formulation? As the Head of R&D and a Leadership Team member, we need your energy, creativity, and wisdom. Generate successful pathways to team growth ...

SASHCO INC

Head of Chemistry R&D (47981)

Thornton, CO · On-site

Are you deep in polymer chemistry? Do you like formulation? As the Head of R&D and a Leadership Team member, we need your energy, creativity, and wisdom. Generate successful pathways to team growth ...

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Head Of Chemistry information

What does a head of chemistry do?

A Head of Chemistry leads and manages the chemistry department within an organization, such as a research institution, pharmaceutical company, or educational facility. They oversee research projects, coordinate teams of chemists, and ensure that all laboratory activities comply with safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, they are responsible for budgeting, resource allocation, and often play a key role in strategic planning and collaboration with other departments. Their work ensures that scientific goals are achieved efficiently and that the department remains at the forefront of innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head of chemistry, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Of Chemistry, you need an advanced degree in chemistry or a related field, a strong background in research, and significant experience in laboratory management. Familiarity with analytical instruments, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and project management skills help in guiding research teams and collaborating with other departments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring scientific excellence, regulatory compliance, and the successful delivery of research objectives.

What are the main challenges a head of chemistry faces when leading a diverse research team?

As a Head of Chemistry, one common challenge is balancing the strategic direction of the department with the day-to-day needs of a diverse team of researchers. This role requires fostering collaboration among chemists with varying specializations, ensuring clear communication, and aligning individual projects with organizational goals. Additionally, the Head of Chemistry must stay updated on industry advancements, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Effective leadership and adaptability are key to navigating these complex responsibilities.

What is the difference between Head Of Chemistry vs Chemist?

AspectHead Of ChemistryChemist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degree (Master's/PhD), leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry
Work EnvironmentManagement, strategic planning, overseeing teamsLaboratory research, experimentation, analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturingResearch labs, manufacturing, quality control
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, management, strategic rolesTechnical, research-focused roles

The Head Of Chemistry typically holds a leadership position overseeing chemistry teams and strategic projects, requiring advanced degrees and management experience. In contrast, a Chemist focuses on hands-on research and laboratory work, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree. Both roles are integral in the chemical industry but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and career focus.

What are the top 5 head of chemistry careers?

The top careers for a Head of Chemistry include senior leadership roles such as Director of Chemistry, Chief Scientific Officer, R&D Manager, Laboratory Director, and Product Development Manager. These positions typically require strong expertise in chemical research, management skills, and advanced degrees like a PhD. They often involve overseeing research teams, developing new products, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What cities are hiring for Head Of Chemistry jobs?

Cities with the most Head Of Chemistry job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Of Chemistry jobs?

The most popular types of Of Chemistry jobs are:

What states have the most Head Of Chemistry jobs?

States with the most job openings for Head Of Chemistry jobs include:

Head Of Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Of Chemistry job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Head of Chemistry

Orum Therapeutics

Lexington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Orum Therapeutics is seeking a highly accomplished chemistry leader to head our Chemistry function, encompassing synthetic organic chemistry, bioconjugation, and analytical chemistry. This role is designed for a technical and organizational leader who thrives at the intersection of medicinal chemistry and antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) or degrader-conjugate payload discovery. As the senior scientific leader for chemistry, you will guide a cohesive team of ~10 scientists across our US and Korea sites, set the strategic direction for our chemistry platform, and serve as a key scientific partner to the CSO and broader R&D organization as Orum advances its pipeline.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Own the strategic and scientific direction of the chemistry organization, spanning synthetic organic chemistry, bioconjugation, and analytical chemistry, in support of Orum's ADC and degrader-conjugate pipeline.
  • Provide hands-on technical leadership in medicinal chemistry, conjugation, and linker chemistry, guiding program teams from early discovery through candidate nomination.
  • Lead, mentor, and manage a cohesive team of approximately 10 scientists, ensuring workload is sustainably distributed and that team members' development needs and career growth are actively supported.
  • Partner cross-functionally with CMC, Biology, Clinical, BD, IP, and Project Management to align chemistry strategy with program milestones and company priorities.
  • Represent the chemistry function in program and candidate reviews, and in relevant external-facing scientific discussions.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and AI tools relevant to chemistry, applying sound judgment on what is genuinely worth adopting.
  • Coordinate and maintain consistency of chemistry strategy, standards, and team culture across both US and Korea sites.
  • Foster a democratic, transparent team environment - leading through influence and group input, creating space for debate and dissent, and remaining comfortable when your own position isn't the one the team selects.

Skills, Abilities & Competencies
  • Strong medicinal chemistry background, evidenced by relevant peer-reviewed publications and/or patent filings, with 5-10 years of leadership experience.
  • Direct experience in ADC or degrader/antibody-conjugate (payload discovery) chemistry - a core technical requirement for this role.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a cross-disciplinary team spanning synthetic organic chemistry, bioconjugation, and analytical science.
  • Proven track record of managing both up and down within an organization, with the judgment to operate effectively in a fast-paced, resource-conscious biotech environment.
  • Strategic, innovative thinker who can point to concrete past examples of driving new scientific or organizational capability, not just describe the instinct.
  • Comfortable operating in a flat, trust-based culture, leading through influence rather than positional authority; genuinely open to being challenged and to decisions not going your way.
  • Strong interpersonal skills: inclusive, gives credit generously, and stays plugged into day-to-day team dynamics rather than leading from a distance.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions, sites (US/Korea), and seniority levels.

Education
Ph.D. or equivalent in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related field, with 5-10 years of relevant leadership experience. Level will be commensurate with experience and accomplishments.
*U.S. citizens and those authorized to work in the U.S. (green card) are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor/transfer at this time.
*Candidate must be able to pass a background investigation.
*Unable to work with 3rd party candidates or agencies.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily within the context of the representative work environment and physical demands described above. Likewise, qualifications listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the position's essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Orum Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

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