Scientist IV, Pharmacology - Contractor

Qpex Biopharma • San Diego, CA

1d

About The Position

The Scientist IV Pharmacology Contractor will play a key scientific role in designing, executing, and interpreting preclinical pharmacology studies to support the discovery and development of novel anti-infective therapeutics. This individual will contribute hands-on scientific expertise across in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, PK/PD, efficacy studies, and data interpretation to support compound advancement from early discovery through preclinical development. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with cross-functional partners in microbiology, medicinal chemistry, and clinical development to generate high-quality pharmacology data that informs project strategy and decision-making.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in microbiology, pharmacology, infectious disease biology, pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline with 5+ years of relevant industry experience; or M.S. with 8+ years of relevant industry experience; or B.S. with 10+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Strong background in preclinical pharmacology, preferably within antibacterial, antifungal, or mycobacterial drug discovery and development.
• Experience designing and interpreting in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies, including pharmacokinetics, toxicology, efficacy models, PK/PD studies, dose-response assessments, and biomarker-supported analyses.
• Working knowledge of drug discovery and preclinical development workflows, including candidate nomination, IND-enabling study support, and cross-functional project team interactions.
• Strong data analysis, scientific writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, troubleshoot scientific challenges, and deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience coordinating studies with CROs or external collaborators is preferred.
• Proficiency with commonly used data analysis and visualization tools; experience with pharmacokinetic and PK/PD modeling software is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, optimize, and execute in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo pharmacology studies to evaluate pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, and pharmacodynamic response of anti-infective drug candidates.
• Analyze and interpret pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, efficacy, PK/PD, and biomarker data to guide compound selection, dose rationale, and project progression.
• Contribute to study design for pharmacokinetic, toxicology, and efficacy models, including selection of appropriate models, endpoints, dosing regimens, controls, and statistical approaches.
• Prepare study protocols, technical reports, data summaries, presentations, and regulatory-supporting documentation as needed.
• Work closely with internal project teams and external CROs to coordinate study execution, monitor progress, troubleshoot issues, and ensure high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborate with microbiology, medicinal chemistry, and clinical development teams to integrate findings/results into broader drug discovery and development strategies.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely laboratory records and ensure work is conducted in accordance with applicable SOPs, safety requirements, and scientific best practices.
• Review scientific literature and emerging technologies to identify opportunities to improve pharmacology study designs, assay performance, and translational relevance.
• Present scientific findings and recommendations to project teams, leadership, and external collaborators as appropriate.
• May mentor junior scientists or research associates, providing technical guidance, scientific feedback, and support for professional development.

Benefits

• The hourly rate for this position is $79 - $102. Individual pay is determined by several factors, which include but are not limited to: job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed