Specialist, Computational Pharmaceutics

Spherical Search is proud to be partnering with a well-established CRO and analytical testing organisation operating at the forefront of inhalation and drug delivery science. With a strong presence in the pharmaceutical development landscape, this company is recognised for its specialist expertise in the testing and development of inhaled and nasal drug products, providing essential support to global pharmaceutical and biotech clients. This organisation is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on the development and testing of inhalable and nasal pharmaceutical products. They work closely with pharmaceutical companies to ensure product safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance.

PRIMARY PURPOSE SUMMARY

This position is responsible for leading and managing a small team of Computational Scientists. The team supports pharmaceutical development programs, clients, and academic/regulatory collaborations through modelling, statistics, data science, and software development activities.

JOB DETAILS / RESPONSIBILITIES

Job descriptions reflect approximately 85% of the responsibilities and are not exhaustive. Other activities within reasonable scope of the role are expected.

ROLE OVERVIEW

• Provide scientific and technical leadership and management to a team of Computational Scientists.
• Lead the execution of client and internal research and development projects in the field of computational pharmaceutics.
• Act as the primary point of contact for problem solving related to computational pharmaceutics (including data analysis, statistics, and physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling).
• Author and review computational reports for scientific and technical accuracy, and review reports from other teams within your area of expertise.
• Present results to internal and external stakeholders, clearly communicating technical challenges in a solution-oriented manner.
• Support cross-functional teams using domain-specific computational skills.
• Develop SOPs, tools, processes, and methodologies (including technical, software development, and project management aspects) for use in revenue-generating and internal projects.
• Provide guidance to business development on the design of client work programmes.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Model best practices, aligning with organisational values and leadership principles.
• Engage proactively with Environment, Health, Safety and Sustainability policies to ensure a safe working environment.
• Comply with quality policies to deliver consistent, high-quality work, data, and reports.
• Read and understand assigned Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) within specified timeframes.
• Maintain up-to-date training records and submit for regular review.
• Submit timesheets, expense claims, and performance documentation in accordance with policies.
• Ensure confidential information is handled appropriately.
• Adhere to company IT and security policies when using equipment such as laptops and phones.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & RELEVANT SKILLS

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS

• A first degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) subject, preferably science or pharmacy, with a 2:1 classification or higher.
• A research degree in a STEM subject with a significant computational component is desirable but not essential.

EXPERIENCE

• Hands-on experience with software such as GastroPlus, Simcyp, MATLAB, or Python for developing and utilising PBPK/PBBM models.
• Experience with statistical programming environments such as R or SAS.
• Demonstrated expertise in drug product development using modelling methodologies such as PBPK/PBBM.
• Regulatory processes involving modelling and simulation tools, including interaction with regulatory authorities and authoring of regulatory documentation.
• Validation of PBPK/PBBM systems using credibility frameworks such as ASME V&V40.
• Proven team management experience and effective collaboration with stakeholders across departments.

SKILLS

• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts.
• Organised and data-driven decision-maker.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
• High attention to detail.
• Self-starter who works well independently and within a team.
• Resilient under pressure and adaptable to a dynamic workload.
• Commitment to personal development and professional standards.
• Demonstrated experience in client-facing roles.
• Proficiency in reading, analysing, and interpreting complex documents.
• Capability to write detailed reports, business correspondence, and technical procedures.