Senior Scientist, Drug Metabolism
Gilead Sciences
Summary
As a Senior Scientist, Drug Metabolism at Gilead, you will serve as an expert in pharmacokinetic (PK) and PK/Pharmacodynamic (PD) modeling of small molecules and biologics, providing strategic and scientific input on discovery and development project teams. The role emphasizes the application of advanced quantitative approaches, including mechanistic and empirical modeling, to characterize and predict the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties of the therapeutics. Demonstrated experience in the utilization of modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) workflows to enhance and streamline workflows is expected. This position is onsite at our global headquarters in Foster City, CA.
Job description
Essential Duties and Job Responsibilities
- Provide advanced PK and PK/PD modeling expertise on project teams across discovery and development stages, guiding the design and interpretation of nonclinical PK, toxicology, and pharmacology studies.
- Drive quantitative DMPK strategy for programs, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to integrate modeling approaches into decision-making; communicate modeling insights and align strategies with scientists, collaborators, and management.
- Design, implement, and validate complex PK/PD and mechanistic models to address translational questions, support dose selection, and predict first-in-human exposures.
- Develop and refine modeling workflows for nonclinical study design, including simulation-based approaches to optimize study parameters and interpret outcomes, with application of AI-based enhancements where possible.
- Work closely with project teams, line management and CROs to assure high quality and timely delivery of documents for regulatory submissions.
- Participate in business development and licensing evaluations.
Requirements
- Masters Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience required OR PhD with 2+ years of relevant experience required.
- Relevant experience includes post-graduate industry experience in PK, drug metabolism, pharmaceutics, or a related life science field, with a primary focus on quantitative modeling of agents (small molecules, biologics, antibody-drug conjugates, targeted protein degraders etc.) for PK and PK/PD characterization across discovery and development.
- Strong foundation in PK and PD principles, with demonstrated ability to translate these concepts into mathematical models.
- Extensive experience in mechanistic PK/PD and multi-compartmental modeling, including proficiency with software platforms such as Phoenix/WinNonlin, MATLAB/SimBiology, GastroPlus, SimBiology, R, or equivalent modeling tools.
- Proven ability to design, implement, and interpret complex modeling workflows, determine next steps based on quantitative insights, and effectively communicate results to project teams and senior management.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience in application of AI, in model-building and in streamlining and automation of workflows.
- Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and commitment to staying current with advances in biologics DMPK and modeling methodologies, supported by a track record of external visibility through publications, presentations, and/or professional organization involvement.
- Excellent communication skills, particularly the ability to explain complex topics to diverse audiences.
Requirements
- Masters Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience required OR PhD with 2+ years of relevant experience required
- Post-graduate industry experience in PK, drug metabolism, pharmaceutics, or a related life science field
- Primary focus on quantitative modeling of agents (small molecules, biologics, antibody-drug conjugates, targeted protein degraders) for PK and PK/PD characterization
- Strong foundation in PK and PD principles with ability to translate concepts into mathematical models
- Extensive experience in mechanistic PK/PD and multi-compartmental modeling
- Proficiency with Phoenix/WinNonlin, MATLAB/SimBiology, GastroPlus, SimBiology, R, or equivalent modeling tools
- Proven ability to design, implement, and interpret complex modeling workflows
- Ability to effectively communicate results to project teams and senior management
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Discretionary Annual Bonus
- Stock-Based Long-Term Incentives
Company overview
Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a leading American biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Foster City, California, that specializes in researching, developing, and commercializing innovative medicines for life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1987, Gilead has grown into a global healthcare leader with approximately 17,600 employees worldwide. The company's primary therapeutic focus areas include HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C), oncology, inflammation, and respiratory diseases. Gilead is renowned for its groundbreaking antiviral therapies, including Sovaldi and Harvoni for hepatitis C, and its comprehensive portfolio of HIV treatments such as Truvada, Atripla, and Biktarvy. The company also developed Veklury (remdesivir) for COVID-19 treatment. Gilead operates as a publicly traded company on the NASDAQ (GILD) and is a component of both the Nasdaq-100 and S&P 100 indices. Through strategic acquisitions like Kite Pharma and Immunomedics, Gilead has expanded into cell therapy and oncology, demonstrating its commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes globally.