Principal Research Scientist I or II, Solid State Chemistry Full-time

Molecular Profiling And Drug Delivery Scientist

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio.

The Molecular Profiling and Drug Delivery (MPDD) function within the Small Molecule CMC organization is accountable for a broad range of deliverables across various stages of drug discovery and development. During lead optimization and through candidate selection, MPDD scientists utilize state-of-the-art automation and computational tools supported by expertise in biopharmaceutics, drug delivery, and solid-state chemistry to collaboratively progress candidates with higher probability of success into development and advise clinical formulation strategy. From candidate selection through clinical proof of concept and product launch, MPDD scientists work in cross functional teams to identify the commercial solid form of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and establish structure-property-performance correlations to help deliver robust commercial processes and align control strategies across drug substance and product. They also collaboratively transition drug substance isolation processes and relevant physical characterization methods to commercial manufacturing sites and work within teams to ensure successful regulatory submissions.

Responsibilities:

• Lead identification and development of solid forms of synthetic drug substances for robust manufacturing processes and products, supporting assets through all phases of development.
• Develop and implement state-of-the-art computational tools to map and de-risk solid form landscape.
• Establish and utilize a diverse array of solid state and materials science characterization techniques, incorporating automation and modeling tools, to define the structure–property–performance relationships of pharmaceutical products.
• Collaboratively develop manufacturing processes in the laboratory and demonstrate the processes in the pilot plant to enable clinical supplies.
• Set project strategies, define project responsibilities and timelines, and provide leadership in a matrixed team setting. Establish, communicate, and execute research plans.
• Supervise and mentor junior scientists and interns, fostering technical and professional growth.
• Publish research findings and represent the organization as a thought leader at scientific conferences.

Qualifications:

• Principle Research Scientist I: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and typically 14+ years of relatable industry experience; master's degree or equivalent education and typically 12+ years of experience; PhD and typically 6+ years of experience.
• Principle Research Scientist II: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and typically 16+ years of relatable industry experience; master's degree or equivalent education and typically 14+ years of experience; PhD and typically 8+ years of experience.
• Preferred educational background includes but is not restricted to Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Material Sciences, Chemical Engineering or Biomedical Engineering. Candidates with less experience may be considered for other opportunities.
• Strong knowledge of solid form development, design and control of associated unit operations along with expertise in analytical tools used therein demonstrated through multiple projects.
• Strong understanding of biopharmaceutical concepts to improve drug-ability of molecules through salts and cocrystals. Strong knowledge of polymorphism concepts, solid form development and materials properties assessment along with experience in analytical tools used (i.e., PXRD, thermal techniques, microscopy, particle size analysis, HPLC, etc.).
• Experience in the CMC development of oral peptide is highly desirable. Experience in solid-form screening, physical properties characterization, and crystallization development of oral peptide, nucleic acid, and therapeutic protein are highly desirable.
• Proven competence in representing the department within cross-functional project teams and expertise centers, with proficiency in developing and implementing strategies that align with functional goals and key scientific objectives.
• Demonstration of creative, “out-of-the-box” thinking to address complex technical challenges and promote new technologies in a fast-paced environment, with expertise in identifying emerging scientific trends and integrating them into strategic plans.
• Possesses a strong record of independently leading research to achieve both short- and long-term organizational goals, while effectively leveraging external innovations and resources to enhance internal capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills with a demonstrated record of building lasting partnerships across organizational boundaries.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.