Molecular Modeler - Computational Chemist - Mechelen (BE)

Pleased to meet you, we are Galapagos, a dynamic growing Biotech company with offices across Europe and in the US. We’re in the business of changing lives. In our quest to discover and develop life-improving medicines we go where no one has ever gone before. In every challenge we face, we see new opportunities. We pioneer for patients. We need thought leaders and rapid thinkers, entrepreneurs in spirit and status quo-fighters. Collaborative innovators and perseverant idealists. We need the best-in-class. In other words, we need you: The ‘make-it-happener’.

Join our innovative Molecular Modeling & Design team, part of the forward-thinking Computational Drug Design group. As a team member, you will harness cutting-edge computational methods to accelerate lead discovery and optimization. Collaborate closely with a diverse team of medicinal chemists, biologists, DMPK scientists, and other experts to drive projects forward and make a tangible impact in bringing molecules to the clinic.

Your role

• Impact: Apply state-of-the-art computational techniques in structure-based (SB) and ligand-based (LB) drug design, compound selection, HTS data analysis, virtual screening, statistical modeling, and ADMET prediction, to support drug discovery projects.
• Collaborate: Work hand-in-hand with multidisciplinary project teams to achieve shared goals and deliver fit-for-purpose solutions.
• Innovate: Contribute to the development of novel computational capabilities and identify areas for scientific improvement, ensuring our strategies remain cutting-edge. Your insights will shape the future of our projects and drive scientific innovation.

Who are you? 

• Educational Background: A Ph.D. in a relevant field with experience in computer-aided drug discovery preferentially in an industrial setting
• Technical Skills:
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry concepts (e.g., tautomerism, pKa)
• Proficiency in structure- and ligand-based drug design and common molecular modeling techniques
• Expertise in one or more advanced techniques: ADMET prediction, machine learning, molecular simulations (MD), FEP, or quantum mechanics calculations
• Programming and scripting skills (Python) and a solid understanding of Linux
• Soft Skills:
• Fluent in English
• Highly independent, self-motivated, and eager to learn
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey complex ideas and collaborate with a diverse team

What's in it for you? 

In this position, you will be part of a dynamic team that values creativity, continuous learning and scientific excellence. You will play a key role in discovering and optimizing drug candidates, contributing to life-changing scientific advancements. We also offer a hybrid work environment, providing flexibility to balance remote and in-office work.

Galapagos is dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities. Our hiring decisions are based on merit, considering qualifications, skills, performance, and achievements. We strictly prohibit discrimination against any employee or job applicant based on personal characteristics that are unrelated to their job.

We are Galapagos: together we make it happen…!