Head of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics; DMPK

Position: Head of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
IRBM is a scientific contract research organization (CRO) that stands at the forefront of drug discovery, leveraging a single, unified research facility, located in Pomezia (Rome), Italy, to accelerate team-based breakthroughs and improve efficiencies from initial concept to pre-clinical candidate. With a history of contributing to several approved drugs, and its own internal pipeline of oncology and other therapeutic assets, IRBM is powered by deep collaborations and decades of expertise from leading global institutions.

Our comprehensive in‑house capabilities assist partners in achieving key milestones and progressing towards clinical readiness, positioning IRBM as a major player in driving innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotech fields.

IRBM Group also has a GMP–certified Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), ADVAXIA Biologics. ADVAXIA is authorized to produce investigational medicinal products by the Italian National Regulatory Authority (AIFA) and is compliant with the FDA and EMA regulatory guidelines.

About the Role
IRBM is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Head of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) to lead its DMPK function across CRO activities and internal drug discovery programs. The Head of DMPK provides scientific, strategic, and operational leadership for in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics, ADME, and bioanalytical activities. The role manages a multidisciplinary team of 10+ scientists across multiple modalities, including small molecules, peptides, and antibodies, ensuring scientific excellence, operational efficiency, and high-quality delivery for both internal programs and external partners.

Reporting directly to the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO), the position plays a key role in shaping project strategies, guiding portfolio decisions, and advancing the long‑term development of DMPK capabilities at IRBM.

Responsibilities

Provide scientific, strategic, and operational leadership for all DMPK activities across CRO activities and internal programs.

Define and implement DMPK strategy to support candidate selection, lead optimization, and preclinical development.

Lead and mentor the DMPK team in the design, execution, analysis, and reporting of PK/ADME and bioanalytical studies.

Oversee both CRO studies and internal discovery programs, ensuring high-quality data, timely delivery, and partner satisfaction.

Serve as a senior scientific interface with external partners and internal teams, advising on study design, data interpretation, and problem‑solving.

Represent DMPK on cross‑functional project teams and integrate activities across R&D to align with portfolio goals.

Implement best practices, emerging technologies, and workflows to drive innovation and operational excellence.

Support business development and portfolio decisions by contributing DMPK expertise to proposals, project planning, and strategic discussions.

Qualifications

PhD (or equivalent) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline.

8+ years of industry experience in drug discovery and development.

Expertise in pharmacokinetics, drug metabolism, and ADME for small molecules and biologics.

Knowledge of PK/PD modeling to support candidate selection and human exposure predictions.

Experience leading multidisciplinary teams in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Strong communication skills and proven ability to influence scientific and development decisions.

The position is based at Pomezia (RM), candidates must have own car.

During the job interview we will evaluate candidates’ experience and the job offer will be commensurate. We thank all applicants for their interest, candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

IRBM considers all qualified applicants without discrimination, including on the basis of race, gender, age, disability, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or other protected classes. We nurture an inclusive culture where everyone can show their full potential and enjoy a fulfilling career.

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