Principal Research Scientist - Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics; DMPK
Listed on 2026-09-12
-
Research/Development
Pharmaceutical Science/ Research, Drug Discovery, Research Scientist, Clinical Research
About the Role
Our client is seeking a distinguished Principal Research Scientist to leadtheir Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) group in Sandton . This senior role is critical for characterizing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties of drug candidates, guiding their progression through the discovery and development pipeline. You will oversee a team of scientists, design and interpret complex DMPK studies, and collaborate with medicinal chemistry and toxicology departments.
The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in DMPK science, a proven track record of scientific leadership, and a deep understanding of how ADME parameters influence drug efficacy and safety, contributing to innovative drug development in our Sandton R&D center.
- Design, execute, and interpret in vitro and in vivo DMPK studies , including metabolic stability, transporter interactions, and pharmacokinetic profiling.
- Develop and validate bioanalytical methods for quantitating drug and metabolite levels in biological matrices.
- Utilize pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation tools to predict human pharmacokinetics and optimize drug candidates.
- Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists to design compounds with improved ADME properties.
- Provide expert DMPK input to project teams, influencing go/no-go decisions and development strategies.
- Mentor and guide junior scientists within the DMPK team, fostering scientific rigor and career development.
- Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, or a related discipline with a focus on DMPK.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics research, with a significant portion in a leadership or principal scientist role within the pharmaceutical industry.
- Extensive experience with various in vitro ADME assays and in vivo PK study design and execution.
- Proficiency in pharmacokinetic modeling software (e.g., Phoenix Win Nonlin, Monolix).
- Strong background in bioanalytical method development (LC-MS/MS).
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- An executive-level salary and comprehensive performance-based incentives.
- Opportunity to lead critical research in drug discovery and development .
- Access to state-of-the-art DMPK laboratories and equipment in Sandton .
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Significant support for professional development and scientific engagement.
(If this job is in fact in your jurisdiction, then you may be using a Proxy or VPN to access this site, and to progress further, you should change your connectivity to another mobile device or PC).