At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative DMPK studies and collaborate on drug discovery projects.
- Company: Vernalis, a leader in drug discovery with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Generous pension, private healthcare, 26 days leave, and flexible working.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to scientific excellence and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug discovery while working with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with hands-on DMPK experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
About Vernalis
Working within our fully equipped research laboratories in Cambridge, our established group of scientists are world leaders in multiple hit‑ID technologies and structure‑based drug discovery. Our scientists develop and apply lead generation and structure‑based methods to solve problems in drug discovery and have generated cell active compounds and development candidates against targets in multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, neurodegeneration, anti‑infectives and inflammation.
The Role – Job summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist II / Associate Principal Scientist (dependent on experience) in DMPK to support our small molecule discovery programs. This is a lab‑based, hands‑on role covering the full spectrum of discovery DMPK, including in vitro ADME assays, metabolite identification (MetID), and the design, bioanalysis and interpretation of in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies. As part of an organisation of ~70 scientists, you will play a key role in generating high‑quality experimental data and translating DMPK insights to guide compound optimisation and candidate selection. You will work closely on multiple projects with medicinal chemistry and biology teams both at Vernalis and with our collaborators, as well as manage and direct work carried out at external CROs.
Key responsibilities
- Design, execute, and interpret in vitro ADME studies
- Develop, optimise, and apply LC‑MS/MS analytical methods to support in vitro and in vivo studies
- Design and oversee in vivo studies via CROs, including study design, dose selection, and sampling strategy
- Perform pharmacokinetic analysis and data interpretation
- Conduct and lead metabolite identification studies (MetID) with structural elucidation to inform medicinal chemistry design
- Maintain and develop internal DMPK laboratory capabilities and workflows
- Identify and mitigate key DMPK risks
- Contribute to multidisciplinary project teams and decision‑making
Knowledge & Experience
- Strong hands‑on experience in small molecule discovery DMPK, including:
- In vitro ADME assay execution and interpretation
- LC‑MS/MS use and troubleshooting ability
- Design and interpretation of in vivo PK studies
- Proven ability to integrate data and inform project decisions
- Familiarity with PK/PD modelling tools
- Ability to design project‑specific screening cascades to reflect current needs
- Experience supporting decision making for candidate selection
- Experience working with external collaborators and CROs
Skills and competencies
- Strong hands‑on experimental capability and troubleshooting skills
- Excellent data analysis and scientific interpretation
- Ability to translate data into clear, actionable insights
- Effective communication across multidisciplinary teams
- Strong organisation and time management skills
- Ability to balance lab work with project delivery
- Ability to influence project direction
- Leadership and mentoring experience
- Demonstratable ability to innovate in the speciality of DMPK
Education & Qualifications
Essential: PhD (or equivalent) in relevant field and several years of DMPK experience in a professional drug discovery related setting.
Why Vernalis?
At Vernalis you will be part of ‘One Team’ working in a friendly and collaborative office. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits including generous pension contributions, private healthcare cover, 26 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, holiday purchase scheme, flexitime, discretionary bonus, employee assistance programme and enhanced family leave policies. If you feel passionate about joining a team where scientific excellence and enthusiasm combine in a friendly and flexible environment to impact drug discovery projects, then please get in touch!
EEO Statement
Vernalis Research is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community – a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
Senior Scientist 2/Associate Principal Scientist DMPK in Peterborough employer: Vernalis
Vernalis is an exceptional employer located in Cambridge, where you will join a collaborative team of world-class scientists dedicated to advancing drug discovery. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including generous pension contributions and private healthcare, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development in a friendly, flexible work environment. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the field of DMPK and thrive in a supportive culture, Vernalis is the perfect place for you.
