Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the 2000 Stock Incentive Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan of Discovery Partners International, Inc., of our report dated January 24, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Discovery Partners International, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2002.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

San Diego, California
March 19, 2003