Associate Scientist I, Solid State/Material Science

About the role

The Molecular Profiling and Drug Delivery (MPDD) function within the Synthetic Molecules 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 transition drug substance isolation processes and relevant physical characterization methods to commercial manufacturing sites and work within teams to ensure successful regulatory submissions.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute solid-state activities, including polymorph screening, salt screening, and materials characterization to support pipeline projects.
• Support API crystallization, isolation, and milling process development to enable timely clinical deliveries with MPDD project leads.
• Demonstrate strong data interpretation and troubleshooting skills by evaluating experiments and instrumentation, and by suggesting, designing, and pursuing relevant experiments.
• Lead and support group safety, lab management, instrument maintenance, and overall laboratory operations to ensure efficient use of time, equipment, supplies, and reagents.
• Learn and effectively implement new experimental techniques and protocols, while applying basic scientific principles and consulting relevant literature to place data in proper scientific context.
• Maintain excellent documentation of all work, including electronic lab notebooks, test methods, and protocols.
• Present results and experimental information in team meetings and communicate scientific findings clearly.

Qualifications

• Basic: BS with 0-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical or related industry.
• Preferred educational background includes but is not restricted to Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, Physical Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Materials Science.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge to carry out job functions.
• A working knowledge of drug substance physical properties, polymorphism, and solid-state characterizations (e.g. particle size, microscopy, flowability, surface area, thermal analysis, PXRD, etc.) relevant to pharmaceutical development and drug product manufacturability/stability.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational, planning and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing conditions.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team setting.

Key Competencies

• Independently generate precise, reliable and reproducible data in a timely manner.
• Demonstrate experimental precision and strong data interpretation skills.
• Competently perform routine tasks with attention to detail.
• Independently review and scrutinize both own and others data.
• Learn fast, grasp the essence and can change the course quickly where indicated.
• Create a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
• Embrace the ideas of others, nurture innovation and manage innovation to reality.
• Keep accurate and current experiments and/or records of research according to AbbVie policies.