Nagarjuna Reddy Muthyala

Senior Principal Scientist with 12+ years of experience in medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, and CRO/CDMO research environments. Proven expertise in leading multidisciplinary teams of 20+ scientists, managing global client communications, and driving end-to-end project planning, execution, and resource allocation. Strong track record in delivering high-quality small-molecule programs within timelines through scientific excellence, cross-functional collaboration, and operational efficiency.

Experienced in ensuring quality, safety, and compliance while aligning project delivery with business objectives. Adept at mentoring teams, improving processes, and contributing to organizational growth in fast-paced, client-focused environments.

Senior Principal Scientist (Career Progression: Senior Scientist → APS → PS → Senior Principal Scientist) at Chemveda Life Sciences Pvt Ltd (2018-03 – Present)

Progressively advanced through scientific leadership roles based on strong technical expertise, project execution, and team leadership.

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary scientific team of 20 FTEs across multiple drug discovery programs & FFS programs, ensuring timely and high-quality project delivery aligned with client expectations.
• Independently manage communication with global pharma/biotech clients, ensuring strong stakeholders' engagement, satisfaction and long-term business relationship.
• Oversee end-to-end project planning, execution, timelines, and resource allocation, while providing scientific direction, troubleshooting support, and mentorship to drive productivity and team growth.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (QC, QA, Engineering & Maintenance, and HR) to ensure seamless technical support and resource availability.
• Partner with business development teams by providing scientific input and strategic contributions for project proposals and client engagements.
• Actively contribute to mentoring, talent development, and coaching to strengthen organizational capability and scientific excellence.
• Contributed to the development and documentation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to improve process consistency and compliance.

Scientific Manager at Aragen Life Sciences (2017-04 – 2018-03)

• Lead medicinal chemistry and drug discovery programs for global pharmaceutical and biotech clients.
• Designed and optimized synthetic routes for novel small molecules and drug candidates.
• Supported client interactions, project planning, and technical presentations.
• Mentored and supervised junior researchers to enhance scientific output and efficiency.
• Managed multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality research outcomes within timelines

Postdoc at North Carolina university (2015-09 – 2017-03)

• Conducted research in tetrapyrrole chemistry with hands-on experience in macrocyclic ring systems.
• Developed and synthesized bacteriochlorin systems contributing toward chlorophyll-related research.
• Strengthened research independence, scientific rigor, and problem-solving capabilities

Associate scientist at Aragen Life Sciences (2014-04 – 2015-08)

• Performed multi-step synthesis of small-molecule heterocycles, library scaffolds, and lead compounds.
• Handled hazardous and pyrophoric reagents in compliance with MSDS and laboratory safety protocols.
• Executed synthetic organic transformations for new chemical entities.
• Maintained accurate experimental documentation and lab records.
• Supported client communication and provided updates on project progress

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry – Unviversity of Hyderabad (2014)

M.Sc. in Chemistry – University of Mysore (2006)