Senior Scientist – Biopharmaceutics Modelling & Simulation (PBPK/PBBM)
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Scientist with expertise in Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) and Physiologically Based Biopharmaceutics Modelling (PBBM) to join a growing pharmaceutical development team.
This role will play a key part in applying mechanistic modelling and simulation approaches to support formulation development, predict clinical performance, and enable data-driven decision making across drug development programmes. Working within multidisciplinary project teams, you will contribute to model-informed drug development strategies and support regulatory submissions through the application of advanced modelling techniques.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, verify and apply PBPK and PBBM models using platforms such as Simcyp, GastroPlus, PK-Sim or equivalent software.
- Support the prediction and assessment of oral absorption, bioavailability, food effects, formulation changes and virtual bioequivalence.
- Conduct sensitivity analyses, model calibration, scenario testing and uncertainty assessments to support development decisions.
- Collaborate with scientists across formulation development, biopharmaceutics, clinical pharmacology and pharmacokinetics teams.
- Support the development of clinically relevant dissolution methods and in vitro-in vivo relationships where appropriate.
- Present modelling outcomes through technical reports, project team meetings, scientific publications and regulatory documentation.
- Contribute to innovation within modelling and simulation, including automation, data science and emerging AI-enabled approaches.
Requirements
- MSc or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biopharmaceutics, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacometrics, Chemical Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
- Demonstrated experience within PBPK, PBBM, pharmacometrics or model-informed drug development.
- Strong understanding of oral drug absorption, dissolution, permeability and pharmacokinetic principles.
- Hands-on experience using modelling platforms such as Simcyp, GastroPlus, PK-Sim or similar tools.
- Ability to translate complex scientific data into practical development recommendations.
- Excellent scientific communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Evidence of scientific contribution through publications, presentations, technical reports or regulatory submissions.
Desirable Experience
- Supporting regulatory submissions involving PBPK or PBBM analyses.
- Virtual bioequivalence assessments and clinically relevant dissolution strategies.
- Programming experience with Python, R, MATLAB or similar scientific tools.
- Machine learning, AI or data science applications within pharmaceutical development.
- Experience working with challenging drug candidates, including poorly soluble compounds, enabling formulations, peptides or complex dosage forms.
Locations
Senior/Laboratory Research Scientist in Kent, Sandwich employer: Next Phase Recruitment
Join a dynamic and innovative pharmaceutical manufacturing organisation in Northern Ireland, where your expertise as a Technical Operations Lead will be valued and impactful. We foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and cross-functional teamwork, ensuring you thrive in your career while contributing to meaningful advancements in healthcare. Enjoy the unique advantage of working in a state-of-the-art facility that champions compliance and quality, all while being part of a supportive community dedicated to excellence.
