Principal Scientist I

AbbVie•Irvine, CA
•$124,500 - $236,500

About The Position

AbbVie’s Allergan Aesthetics Biological Research group seeks an innovative scientist to direct and contribute to multidisciplinary research in a collaborative environment. The role leads a team of in vivo pharmacology scientists who design and perform studies using existing and novel assays to evaluate the effects of therapeutic proteins on muscle paralysis. The successful candidate will be a recognized scientific and technical expert who leads research addressing project and franchise needs. The position requires a strong background in pharmacology, particularly in vivo pharmacology, and a record of leading diverse, matrixed teams advancing novel therapeutics toward development. The scientist contributes across project conception, strategic planning, experimental design, data analysis and interpretation, recommendations, and communication of findings. They lead through influence, develop team members, and maintain a productive, collaborative, and inclusive laboratory environment while following regulatory and company expectations. The role also advances functional scientific capabilities through new assays, measurements, and technologies; oversees data quality and technical documentation; and communicates research strategies and program updates to partners and leaders across discovery and development.

Requirements

  • PhD in Biology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or an equivalent field, with at least 6 years of related biotech or pharmaceutical work experience; alternatively, a Master’s degree in science or PharmD with at least 12 years of related work experience.
  • Extensive experience with pharmacological assays, particularly in vivo pharmacology, in an industrial research environment.
  • At least 6 years of experience managing teams and/or cross-functional projects.
  • Strong knowledge and experience in central and peripheral neuroscience, animal anatomy, and histological assays and methods.
  • Ability to lead multiple complex research programs in parallel in an organized and self-directed manner.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to accurately documenting experimental plans, timelines, study results, and technical reports.
  • Experience authoring and contributing to technical reports, regulatory documents, and presentations.
  • Leadership and management skills, including mentoring, guiding, supervising, and developing scientific personnel with varied backgrounds and training levels.
  • Understanding of statistical analysis of scientific data using software such as Prism, SigmaPlot, or SPSS.
  • Problem-solving skills and ability to lead teams in resolving issues and making strategic decisions.
  • Effective written and oral communication and interpersonal skills for working with diverse internal groups and external partners.
  • Ability and willingness to lead inclusively, value diverse viewpoints, and listen to and consider different points of view.

Nice To Haves

  • Direct experience with peripheral animal models and measurements.

Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate a high level of proficiency and expertise in the discipline.
  • Lead team members in designing and performing in vivo assays, analyzing pharmacological results, and delivering data and presentations on time.
  • Set functional goals and experimental timelines, and execute a strategy aligned with department and franchise scientific objectives.
  • Manage team priorities and activities, and develop direct reports through mentoring, training, and supervision.
  • Ensure team members understand project objectives and their role in achieving them.
  • Apply creative problem-solving, champion new technologies, and modify experimental plans when needed to meet project goals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners to advance discovery programs into clinical studies and potentially support later development goals.
  • Make significant contributions to project teams through laboratory or other work-environment activities.
  • Develop strategies to identify and implement novel assays, measurements, and technologies that improve throughput, quality, and reproducibility.
  • Stay current with emerging science and literature and integrate relevant developments into functional objectives.
  • Provide expert advice and share knowledge with direct reports, peers, and senior management.
  • Oversee data management and quality control; author technical documents and publications, including protocols, study reports, and relevant regulatory filing sections.
  • Organize and present program updates and research strategies to cross-functional partners and leaders across discovery and development.
  • Follow corporate standards for conduct, safety, material handling, controlled drugs, and animal welfare where applicable.

Benefits

  • Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and sick time.
  • Medical insurance.
  • Dental insurance.
  • Vision insurance.
  • 401(k).
  • Eligibility to participate in long-term incentive programs.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Senior

Education Level

Ph.D. or professional degree

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