Principal Scientist for In Silico Peptide Discovery

Shape the future of peptide therapeutics at Novo Nordisk—lead our digital strategy and put breakthrough medicines within reach for millions of patients worldwide.

 

The Department
The In Silico Peptide Discovery team, part of Digital Chemistry and Design, is comprised of enthusiastic modellers who foster close collaboration to drive innovation across our peptide portfolio. We apply fit‑for‑purpose computational methods — from AI and machine learning to cheminformatics and structure-based modelling — to drive project success. We work with chemists, pharmacologists, biophysicists, other experimental scientists and in silico groups to apply cutting‑edge tools to enhance compound optimization and support portfolio progression.

 

About the role
We’re seeking a Principal Scientist to drive the Digital Strategy for peptide drug discovery projects focused on incretin and amylin biology. As ambassador for Digital Chemistry & Design, you will collaborate with in silico and experimental teams and engage portfolio stakeholders to embed digital methods and drive execution from early ideation to candidate selection.

 

This role blends strategic leadership with hands-on in silico expertise and talent development, accelerating peptide drug discovery and turning scientific insights into real-world impact.

 

Key responsibilities

Set and execute the Digital Strategy for peptide projects and engage in portfolio initiatives, translating scientific vision into delivery. Lead a team of excellence delivering consolidated in‑silico support to incretin and amylin peptide projects, integrating modelling with unique insights from molecular pharmacology, biophysics and structural biology. Partner with modelling and AI scientists to expand and apply our in‑silico toolbox for innovative, data‑driven decision‑making from ideation to discovery. Contribute to project ideation and assessment, identifying and maturing initiatives that are well suited to peptide modalities for target modulation. Mentor and grow peptide modelling talent and shape best practices for in silico work and multidisciplinary collaboration scenarios.

 

Qualifications

PhD in Computational Chemistry, Computational Biophysics, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field. Proven “drug hunter” track record delivering measurable impact via compound optimization within mixed in silico and experimental teams. Deep understanding of the research value chain and assay data relevant to molecular pharmacology, biophysics, and structural biology. Broad in silico expertise: SAR analysis, structure-based modelling, and application of machine learning in drug discovery. Strong coding skills and familiarity with software development best practices and tools (e.g., Python, Git/GitHub).

 

It is preferable if you also bring experience building computational peptide design platforms, mentoring cross-disciplinary teams or training programs, and familiarity with cloud computing and reproducible in silico workflows.

 

Why join us
Make a direct impact on patients while shaping the digital strategy for a portfolio of peptide programs. You’ll collaborate with senior scientific leaders, supported by rich data, state-of-the-art experimental capabilities, and dedicated AI/modelling partners. Expect an inclusive, collaborative culture with global development opportunities and flexibility where the role allows.

 

Working at Novo Nordisk

Every day we seek the solutions that defeat serious chronic diseases. To do this, we approach our work with an unconventional spirit, a rare determination and a constant curiosity. For over 100 years, this unordinary mindset has seen us build a company unlike any other. One where a collective passion for our purpose, mutual respect and a willingness to go beyond what we know delivers extraordinary results.

 

Contact

For further information, please contact David Rodríguez Díaz at ddrd@novonordisk.com

 

Deadline

15. March 2026

 

You only need to submit you CV including a few sentences about why you are applying. To ensure an efficient and fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo in your CV.

 

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.

 

At Novo Nordisk, we're not chasing quick fixes – we're creating lasting change for long-term health. For over 100 years, we've been driven by a single purpose: to defeat serious chronic diseases and help millions of people live healthier lives. This dedication fuels our constant curiosity and inspires us to push the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. We embrace diverse perspectives, seek out bold ideas, and build partnerships rooted in shared purpose. Together, we're making healthcare more accessible, treating and preventing diseases, and pioneering solutions that create change spanning generations. When you join us, you become part of something bigger – a legacy of impact that reaches far beyond today.