Humanwell Pharmaceutical US, Inc.
Principal / Senior Principal Biologist or Pharmacologist in Drug Discovery
Humanwell Pharmaceutical US, Inc., Ballwin, Missouri, United States, 63021
Principal / Senior Principal Biologist or Pharmacologist in Drug Discovery
Humanwell Pharmaceutical US, Inc. is a Ballwin, MO–based pharmaceutical research and development laboratory focused on discovering and developing novel therapeutics to address unmet medical needs in pain and central nervous system (CNS) diseases. We are seeking an inspiring and highly accomplished Principal or Senior Principal Biologist/Pharmacologist with deep expertise in molecular and cell biology or CNS pharmacology. The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record in drug discovery and development, particularly in pain and CNS-related indications, and demonstrate the ability to seamlessly integrate in vitro and in vivo approaches to drive molecules from early discovery through IND-enabling studies. This leadership role calls for a combination of scientific vision, hands-on expertise, and strategic thinking, as well as a proven ability to collaborate across disciplines and guide cross-functional teams toward innovative solutions that advance our pipeline. Key Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership in biology and pharmacology across pain and CNS drug discovery programs. Identify and validate novel targets, and design assays related to functional signal transduction pathways relevant to CNS and pain. Design, conduct, and oversee in vitro and in vivo efficacy, PK/PD, and mechanistic studies in relevant CNS disease models (e.g., pain, neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders). Develop, refine, and validate translational models to enhance predictive value in preclinical studies. Integrate pharmacology/biology findings with medicinal chemistry, DMPK, biomarkers, toxicology, and clinical input to drive candidate progression. Collaborate closely with regulatory teams to prepare IND submission packages and support regulatory interactions. Work with medical professionals to contribute to clinical trial protocol development. Manage CROs, external collaborations, and internal laboratory operations to ensure high-quality, reproducible science. Mentor and supervise junior scientists to build a strong and sustainable research team. Present strategy, progress, and results to project leadership, senior management, and external partners. Qualifications Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Physiology, or a related biomedical discipline. 10+ years of industrial experience in pharmaceutical/biotech R&D, with significant depth in CNS or pain drug discovery. Demonstrated expertise in vitro assay development and/or in vivo CNS pharmacology (behavioral assays, imaging, surgical models, transgenic platforms). Proven success in advancing molecules into IND-enabling studies. Strong knowledge of PK/PD principles, biomarker development, and translational pharmacology. Experience managing cross-functional teams, CROs, and external collaborators. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Familiarity with regulatory guidelines for preclinical and clinical research. Excellent communication skills; ability to communicate in both English and Chinese is preferred. Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to lead and innovate in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. You will play a pivotal role in shaping our CNS biology and pharmacology strategy, advancing our pipeline, and translating cutting-edge science into transformative therapies for patients. We offer a
competitive salary and benefits package , including health insurance, 401K, and a vacation plan. Our company is committed to
diversity and inclusion , and we welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
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Humanwell Pharmaceutical US, Inc. is a Ballwin, MO–based pharmaceutical research and development laboratory focused on discovering and developing novel therapeutics to address unmet medical needs in pain and central nervous system (CNS) diseases. We are seeking an inspiring and highly accomplished Principal or Senior Principal Biologist/Pharmacologist with deep expertise in molecular and cell biology or CNS pharmacology. The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record in drug discovery and development, particularly in pain and CNS-related indications, and demonstrate the ability to seamlessly integrate in vitro and in vivo approaches to drive molecules from early discovery through IND-enabling studies. This leadership role calls for a combination of scientific vision, hands-on expertise, and strategic thinking, as well as a proven ability to collaborate across disciplines and guide cross-functional teams toward innovative solutions that advance our pipeline. Key Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership in biology and pharmacology across pain and CNS drug discovery programs. Identify and validate novel targets, and design assays related to functional signal transduction pathways relevant to CNS and pain. Design, conduct, and oversee in vitro and in vivo efficacy, PK/PD, and mechanistic studies in relevant CNS disease models (e.g., pain, neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders). Develop, refine, and validate translational models to enhance predictive value in preclinical studies. Integrate pharmacology/biology findings with medicinal chemistry, DMPK, biomarkers, toxicology, and clinical input to drive candidate progression. Collaborate closely with regulatory teams to prepare IND submission packages and support regulatory interactions. Work with medical professionals to contribute to clinical trial protocol development. Manage CROs, external collaborations, and internal laboratory operations to ensure high-quality, reproducible science. Mentor and supervise junior scientists to build a strong and sustainable research team. Present strategy, progress, and results to project leadership, senior management, and external partners. Qualifications Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Physiology, or a related biomedical discipline. 10+ years of industrial experience in pharmaceutical/biotech R&D, with significant depth in CNS or pain drug discovery. Demonstrated expertise in vitro assay development and/or in vivo CNS pharmacology (behavioral assays, imaging, surgical models, transgenic platforms). Proven success in advancing molecules into IND-enabling studies. Strong knowledge of PK/PD principles, biomarker development, and translational pharmacology. Experience managing cross-functional teams, CROs, and external collaborators. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Familiarity with regulatory guidelines for preclinical and clinical research. Excellent communication skills; ability to communicate in both English and Chinese is preferred. Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to lead and innovate in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. You will play a pivotal role in shaping our CNS biology and pharmacology strategy, advancing our pipeline, and translating cutting-edge science into transformative therapies for patients. We offer a
competitive salary and benefits package , including health insurance, 401K, and a vacation plan. Our company is committed to
diversity and inclusion , and we welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
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