Subject Matter Expert Solid State Science

Position Overview

At Roche, we are seeking a Subject Matter Expert to lead solid‑state strategy and optimize the solid‑state form of drug candidates within our Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED) organization.

• Lead the identification of the optimal solid‑state form, ensuring early‑stage candidates possess the necessary solubility and stability for clinical success.
• Serve as the central hub, coordinating complex screening and characterization activities across internal laboratories and global external partners.
• Lead cross‑functional efforts to de‑risk drug candidates and define the "Golden Form" that advances therapies from the lab to patients.
• Act as the single point of accountability for the solid‑state strategy of assigned projects, selecting optimal salt, polymorph, and particle forms to support stability and bioavailability.
• Assume full responsibility for lifecycle management of materials, from integration of biopharmaceutical assessments to definition of robust crystallization processes.
• Orchestrate the interface between Chemistry, Analytics, and Formulation teams to harmonize the material‑science narrative throughout the drug development lifecycle.
• Evaluate, vet, and select global external CRO/CMO partners; manage collaborations and ensure data generation meets rigorous quality and milestone standards.
• Explore and champion digitalization and automated screening tools to enhance data analysis throughput and accelerate project cycle times.
• Manage the balance between internal technical services and external outsourcing partners, ensuring high‑quality data generation and proactive risk mitigation.

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Material Science, or a closely related field.
• Strong focus on solid‑state characterization and crystallization.
• Deep understanding of solid‑state analytical techniques (XRD, DSC, TGA, DVS, microscopy) and their application in pharmaceutical development.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects in a matrix environment and translate technical data into strategic decisions for non‑expert stakeholders.
• Experience managing external CRO/CMO relationships and driving process improvements, including digital solution implementation.
• Proactive, solution‑oriented approach with strong communication skills and adaptability to a fast‑paced R&D environment.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.