ROLE SUMMARY

The purpose of this position is to act as a resident pharmaceutical science subject matter expert in spray dried dispersion (SDD) technology. This role will collaborate with formulation scientists to influence small molecule drug candidate selection with respect to application of SDD technology to improve drug delivery and bio-performance. This role will be responsible for development and optimal SDD composition selection as well as characterization to ensure appropriate in vivo performance. As an individual and as part of a network, this role will contribute to the formation of predictive models, efficiency in process and workflows, as well as exploration of more efficient and/or greener amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) manufacturing technologies. This position will perform technology transfer activities with our GMP SDD vendor network.

• Evaluate the physicochemical properties of potential small molecule drug candidates to inform an ASD formulation strategy and developability risk assessment.
• Design and develop fit for purpose and diagnostic SDD formulations for preclinical studies.
• Be a subject matter expert in formulation and process development for SDDs supporting multiple discovery teams across several research units.
• Apply first-principles understanding of thermodynamics and kinetic processes to dissolution and precipitation of drugs in biorelevant conditions as well as physical and chemical stability in the solid state.
• Develop strategic collaborations with academic and industrial researchers for addressing gaps in fundamental or applied science related to amorphous solid dispersions.
• Conduct novel research and present significant findings via internal and external presentations or publications.
• Supervision of laboratory staff to support SDD production and assessment.
• Work collaboratively with scientists across the organization to understand and address key challenges in the ASD space.

• PhD with 12+ years experience in industrial spray dried dispersion technology or related disciplines
• Experience in formulation and manufacturing of SDDs targeted at bioavailability enhancement
• Experience working independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment

• Experience in breaking down and isolating the controlling physics of complex processes for experimental design
• Experience in designing and conducting hypothesis driven laboratory experiments
• Generating, interpreting, and integrating experimental data into mathematical models to progress the understanding of complex materials and processes
• Experience in pharmacokinetic modeling and simulations using Gastroplus, Simcyp, or Phoenix
• Strong organizational skills, interpersonal skills, teamwork skills, strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and activities while managing tight timelines
• Candidate demonstrates a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.

• Includes activities in both laboratory and office settings. Candidate must be able to perform routine laboratory tests and procedures. Ability to perform mathematical calculations and ability to perform complex data analysis.

• Occasional travel for conferences/training (domestic and international)