About the job
About Chai Discovery
Chai Discovery is at the forefront of revolutionizing drug discovery through advanced AI models, dedicated to designing innovative molecules and transforming the future of healthcare. Our passionate, craft-focused team is committed to reimagining how new cures are identified and developed, ultimately saving lives.
Founded by esteemed researchers and accomplished Silicon Valley leaders who have co-invented groundbreaking technologies such as protein language modeling and cutting-edge folding algorithms, Chai has successfully attracted $230 million from top-tier investors, including OpenAI, Thrive, General Catalyst, Oak HC/FT, and Dimension. We believe that small, elite teams can surpass larger competitors by rapidly innovating and iterating.
Why Join Us Now?
With the recent launch of Chai-2, we are witnessing a swift increase in deal volume and demand. We are seeking a dynamic operator and deal-maker to spearhead high-stakes pharmaceutical partnerships. This pivotal role will involve crafting innovative transaction structures and developing novel intellectual property frameworks for our groundbreaking AI-driven drug discovery platform.
Your Role
As our inaugural Business Development hire, you will report directly to our CEO and be a foundational member of Chai's commercial team. Your contributions will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of our business, showcasing exceptional project management abilities, problem-solving acumen, and a drive for creating mutually beneficial partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
Foster, manage, and advance all partnership deals. Lead negotiations on business terms and translate our business model and pricing strategy into clear, actionable deal frameworks. Serve as the operational lead, overseeing timelines, workflows, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure deal progression.
Engage in the development and oversight of “deal maps” that outline the path of each partnership, pinpointing key decision-making moments, gatekeepers, and anticipated interpersonal, political, and business dynamics.
Take ownership of the complete contracting process, including drafting, revisions, internal evaluations, and coordination with external counsel, while ensuring all legal aspects of deals maintain momentum from initial dialogue to closure.
Assist in defining and upholding the intellectual property strategy that supports our partnerships.
Oversee agreements beyond partnerships, including contracts with CROs and data generation collaborators.
Preferred Experience and Qualifications
A results-oriented deal operator with a legal background (JD preferred) and proven experience in drafting, reviewing, and advancing complex contracts.
Background in business development within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors is highly desirable.
