Apply groundbreaking in silico methods to drive the new generation of peptide therapeutics.

 

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 are seeking a Senior Scientist to apply advanced computational methods to peptide therapeutics discovery. You will serve as a subject‑matter expert in physics‑based and AI/ML approaches, develop in silico workflows to optimise bioactivity, biophysics, and pharmacokinetics, and partner with experimental and in silico teams to translate predictions into testable experiments that drive portfolio progress.

 

Key responsibilities

Serve as a subject‑matter expert on advanced in silico methodologies and guide their application across peptide therapeutics projects. Build productive collaborations with experimental scientists to ensure computational work aligns with project needs and informs experimental design. Spearhead the onboarding and development of novel in silico approaches to optimise peptide bioactivity, biophysical stability, solubility/aggregation propensity and pharmacokinetics. Collaborate with modelling and AI scientists to expand and apply the in silico toolbox and integrate suitable methods into innovative workflows.

 

Qualifications

PhD (or MSc with equivalent experience) in Computational Chemistry, Computational Biophysics or a closely related field. Expertise in structure‑based, first‑principles and co‑folding methods to support hit identification and compound property optimization. Deep understanding of physics-based drivers of biologics-target binding, molecular properties in solution and data arising from relevant biophysical assays. Experience combining in silico sampling with experimental data; integrative modelling is a plus. Demonstrated ability to develop project‑centric models, including application of machine learning approaches. Experience with drug discovery projects in biotech or pharmaceutical settings is desirable. Proficient coding skills and familiarity with software development best practices and tools (e.g., Python, Git/GitHub). Preferably 2+ years’ postdoctoral or industry experience in biotech or pharma working on peptides or biologics, or equivalent experience.

Preferably, candidates will have experience deploying computational pipelines to production or cloud environments, a track record of integrating computational predictions into experiments and decision‑making, and familiarity with biophysical or pharmacokinetics predictions for biologics.

 

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.

 

By submitting your application for this position, you acknowledge and agree that your CV and application materials may be accessible and viewed by relevant managers within our organization for the purpose of evaluating your candidacy.

 

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.