Research Scientist (Crystallization R&D)

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Scientist to join our Crystallization R&D Department at Porton J-STAR. This position is responsible for leading group or contributing individually to search for the right solid form and develop formulations to support preclinical studies including PK, PD, efficacy, tox studies. This role is also responsible for crystallization process development, with goals of controlling final solid form of drug substances with desired solid-state attributes needed for optimum performance as well as drug intermediates for robust purification.

Responsibilities

• Perform activities in phase-appropriate solid form screening & selection and solid-state characterization, such as powder X-ray diffraction, DSC, TGA, SEM, particle size, polarized light microscopy, moisture sorption analysis, solubility, dissolution and stability assessments.
• Understand solid form phase mapping of drug candidates to assist in crystallization process development.
• Carry out experiments in preformulation and developability assessment.
• Conduct phase-appropriate crystallization process development for API and intermediates to meet critical quality attributes.
• Carry out rational design and control of drug substance physical properties through particle engineering technologies and drug substance-drug product coprocessing.
• Learn continuously and apply fundamentals of related instrumentation knowledge (automation, PAT), and simulation tools in effective crystallization process development, from experimental design to operation, data collection, result analysis and presentation.
• Implement new technologies, systems and ways of working to enhance both technical rigor and operational efficiency to better meet the demands of diverse drug developmental programs.
• Contribute weekly client updates, ensure weekly update and final reports submitted in a timely fashion.
• Prepare and submit final technical reports and documentation to clients in accordance with project timelines.
• Communicate candidly, clearly and timely with clients, management, peers and group members.
• Maintain a safe and clean laboratory environment, comply with cGMP procedures, and company policies.
• Contribute to the development, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment to support crystallization and solid-state research.
• Maintain appropriate documentation (batch records and lab notebooks).
• Perform other relevant duties as assigned by the management team.

Qualifications

• MS or BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with a focus on crystallization, solid-state chemistry, or materials science.
• 1-5 years of experience in solid form studies and preformulation development, crystallization process development.
• Good understanding of solid-state chemistry of small molecule drug substances.
• Working knowledge of analytical techniques such as PXRD, TGA, DSC, PLM, DVS, HPLC, NMR and PSD.
• Experience within the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry or CDMO industry is required. Experience in both is desirable but not required.
• Proven track record meeting aggressive targets as related to safe, timely and successful projects.
• Good written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Strong communication, organization, and planning skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage numerous activities simultaneously.
• Ability to interact in an effective and appropriate manner with diverse population sets.
• Experience in working on and positively contributing to scientific teams.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position.