Meet Life Sciences
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to join our Preformulation and Solid-State Chemistry group within CMC Drug Product Development. The successful candidate will contribute to the characterization and development of small-molecule new chemical entities (NCEs), focusing on solid-state properties, preformulation assessments, and material sciences to support formulation design and drug product development. This is a temporary position with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct preformulation studies to characterize the physicochemical properties of drug candidates (e.g., solubility, preclinical formulation (solution/ suspension), pKa, log P/D, hygroscopicity, stability).
Perform solid-state characterization using techniques such as XRPD, DSC, TGA, microscopy, FTIR, SEM, bulk/tapped density, contact angle, and solid-state NMR.
Under the guidance of a senior scientist, conduct salt, cocrystal, and polymorph screening to enable selection of optimal drug substance forms for development.
Conduct compatibility and excipient screening studies to support formulation development.
Work closely with formulation scientists to generate data guiding solid oral dosage form development.
Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data, ensuring high-quality technical reports.
Maintain laboratory notebooks and comply with all laboratory safety requirements.
Present data and findings in team meetings and contribute to scientific discussions.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
PhD/M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field with 0-2 years of relevant industry experience; or B.S. with 3-5 years of relevant experience in preformulation or solid-state chemistry.
Technical Skills
Hands-on experience with solid-state analytical techniques (XRPD, DSC, TGA, SEM, PLM, Surface area, True density, FTIR, HPLC, NMR spectroscopy).
Familiarity with solubility, dissolution, and stability testing of drug candidates.
Understanding of solid-state form screening (salt, cocrystal, polymorph).
Experience with data analysis and documentation in regulated environments.
Proficiency with scientific software and instrumentation for material characterization.
Other Skills
Strong problem-solving skills and scientific curiosity.
Excellent organizational and documentation practices.
Ability to work independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Effective written and verbal communication skills