Senior Scientist or Scientist - Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Summary
The Senior Scientist or Scientist conducts laboratory-based studies under the general guidance of the Director. Independently designs and executes experiments to support drug discovery and development efforts within the area of expertise. Analyzes and interprets data, refines experimental approaches, and contributes to the communication and reporting of research findings.
Job description
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on scientist to join our academically-oriented team supporting primarily small-molecule drug discovery and development. This laboratory-based role requires direct execution of bioanalytical, in vitro DMPK, and in vivo PK studies. The successful candidate will have a track record of executing such work directly rather than managing or outsourcing it. This is a bench-focused position emphasizing practical, experimental work across a DMPK-style workflow in an academic, non-profit environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform quantitative LC-MS/MS bioanalysis of small and/or large molecules in biological matrices (plasma, tissues, etc.) from in vitro and in vivo studies to support PK/PD, ADME, and efficacy evaluations (experience with SCIEX instrumentation preferred; non-regulated/discovery BA setting is acceptable).
- Execute in vitro DMPK assays, including plasma protein binding, microsomal stability incubations, hepatocyte metabolism studies, and permeability assessments in cell monolayers.
- Conduct in vivo PK studies, dosing by various standard routes, terminal and non-terminal blood sampling, and organ/tissue collection.
- Develop and/or prepare preclinical formulations by dissolving or suspending test agents for in vivo dosing.
- Analyze data, maintain accurate records (LIMS, lab notebooks, reports), and communicate results to the Director and project team in a fast-paced environment.
- Performs other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals of the department and institution.
- Maintains regular and predictable attendance.
Minimum Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience with LC-MS/MS bioanalysis for small molecules.
- Practical laboratory experience running in vitro DMPK/ADME assays (protein binding, microsomes, hepatocytes, monolayers).
- Direct hands-on experience executing in vivo PK studies (dosing, sampling, tissue collection).
- Working knowledge of preclinical formulation techniques (solutions and suspensions).
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to plan and work independently while collaborating effectively.
Minimum Education and/or Training
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline is required.
Scientist Minimum Experience
- Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required.
- Six (6) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree.
- Three (3) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD.
Senior Scientist Minimum Experience
- Ten (10) years relevant work experience is required.
- Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree.
- Five (5) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD.
Requirements
- Demonstrated experience with LC-MS/MS bioanalysis for small molecules.
- Practical laboratory experience running in vitro DMPK/ADME assays (protein binding, microsomes, hepatocytes, monolayers).
- Direct hands-on experience executing in vivo PK studies (dosing, sampling, tissue collection).
- Working knowledge of preclinical formulation techniques (solutions and suspensions).
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to plan and work independently while collaborating effectively.
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline is required.
- Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required.
- Six (6) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree.
- Three (3) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD.
- Ten (10) years relevant work experience is required.
- Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree.
- Five (5) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD.
Company overview
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-renowned pediatric research and treatment institution headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, dedicated to advancing cures for childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Founded in 1962 by entertainer Danny Thomas, it stands as the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted exclusively to children. The hospital operates on a unique funding model where families never receive bills for treatment, travel, housing, or food, with costs exceeding $2 billion annually primarily supported by donations through its fundraising organization ALSAC. St. Jude treats approximately 8,600 patients each year from all 50 states and around the world, with a focus on acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumors, sickle cell disease, and infectious diseases. The institution employs over 7,000 staff members and maintains eight affiliate clinics across the United States. Through its St. Jude Global initiative, the hospital shares research and treatment protocols internationally, partnering with more than 350 institutions in over 90 countries. St. Jude has been instrumental in increasing childhood cancer survival rates from 20% in 1962 to over 80% today, while maintaining a robust research program that includes gene therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and precision medicine approaches.