Biotech company Tagworks Pharmaceuticals is looking for a new Head of Chemistry who will be responsible for leading the discovery, design and synthesis of small molecules, conjugatable payloads and other constructs for novel Click-to-Release applications.

The company

Headquartered in Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Tagworks Pharmaceuticals is a dynamic biotech company with strong backing from prominent US and European investors. Specializing in proprietary in vivo click chemistry, Tagworks is committed to improving the effectiveness and reducing the toxicity of systemic cancer treatments. Operating at the Radboud University Medical Center, Tagworks pioneers unique approaches towards antibody-drug conjugates, prodrugs, and targeted radiotherapeutics through its “Click-toRelease’’ platform, rooted in Nobel Prize-winning research. To further strengthen the organization, we are looking for a Head of Chemistry.

The position

Our Head of Chemistry is responsible for leading the discovery, design and synthesis of small molecules, conjugatable payloads and other constructs for novel Click-to-Release applications. You lead Tagworks’ chemistry research performed in house and at CROs. You stay abreast of the latest developments in the fields of organic chemistry, bioorthogonal chemistry, bioconjugate chemistry, with a focus onADC’s including linkerpayload designs, other prodrugs and targeted radiotherapeutics, through literature and conferences. You develop and maintain a network of subject matter experts, collaborators and CROs.

In coordination with other research teams in Tagworks you drive the development of compounds and conjugates for our pipeline of click-cleavable ADCs, other prodrugs, and targeted radiotherapeutics, and contribute to Tagworks’ intellectual property. You develop and manage strategies, research plans, timelines and budgets and report results and recommendations to management and other stakeholders. You lead a small chemistry team and report directly to the Chief Scientific Officer.

The requirements

We expect our Head of Chemistry to bring 4+ years experience in design, synthesis and development of small molecules in a biotech/pharmaceutical environment. You keep a PhD in (Organic) Chemistry or a related field and have a good understanding of discovery and development of small molecule drugs and/or small molecule conjugates. You have an up-to-date understanding of developments in organic chemistry and common organic chemical synthesis, purification, and characterization techniques.

Experience in the field of bioorthogonal chemistry, bioconjugate chemistry, ADCs or targeted radiotherapeutics is desirable. You are experienced in managing a small team and overseeing the outsourced work at CROs and SMEs. You are a strategic and innovative thinker with track record of developing creative approaches. You have a demonstrated ability to determine strategic priorities, set goals, and manage timelines and resources effectively. You communicate clearly about strategy, priorities, results and recommendations. You have the ability to successfully collaborate with multiple key stakeholders and project teams.

The offer

You will join a group of passionate and very skilled professionals working towards a common goal. We offer a set of attractive and competitive benefits, recognizing and rewarding our talented and motivated employees.

Our culture and values

At Tagworks, our culture is built on innovation, collaboration, inclusivity and achieving results. We prioritize teamwork, flexibility, resilience, adaptability, and fulfilling commitments.

How to apply

Please send your CV together with a cover letter to hr@tagworkspharma.com or visit our website.