Pharmacologist

Role - Research Scientist - In Vitro ADME

Educational Qualifications

• Master’s degree in pharmacology, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline.
• 5–7 years of direct experience in an in-vitro ADME laboratory (pharma/biotech/CRO).

Purpose:

To generate high-quality, reproducible in-vitro ADME data that supports medicinal chemistry and discovery biology teams in optimizing molecular properties. The role ensures robust ADME assay execution, scientific interpretation, innovation in assay methodologies, and effective cross-functional collaboration to accelerate hit-to-lead and lead optimization programs.

Key Responsibilities

A. Strategic Responsibilities

• Provide strategic ADME insights to Medicinal Chemistry and Biology for compound prioritization.
• Influence project direction by interpreting trends in clearance, permeability, solubility, DDI risk, and transporter interactions.
• Contribute to defining the ADME package for hit-to-lead, lead optimization, and early preclinical milestones.
• Identify and introduce emerging ADME assay technologies, automation opportunities, and predictive tools (e.g., IVIVE, ADMET modelling).
• Support long-term capability building of the DMPK platform.

B. Operational Responsibilities

• Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot in-vitro ADME assays such as metabolic stability, plasma stability, protein binding, CYP inhibition/induction, phenotyping, PAMPA, Caco-2, MDCK, transporter assays, solubility, and DDI workflows.
• Analyse and interpret LC-MS/MS data to calculate intrinsic clearance, permeability coefficients, efflux ratios, enzyme contributions, and stability parameters.
• Maintain meticulous documentation through ELNs, assay worksheets, and technical reports.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams for sample management, study timelines, and data delivery.
• Maintain lab infrastructure including LC-MS/MS, automation systems (TECAN), incubators, and cell culture platforms.
• Support assay validation, SOP drafting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

C. Financial Responsibilities

• Optimize usage of consumables, enzymes, reagents, plates, and solvents to minimize assay costs.
• Ensure efficient LC-MS/MS run scheduling to maximize instrument throughput and reduce operational overheads.
• Contribute to budgeting for ADME assays, method development projects, and instrument maintenance needs.
• Avoid repeat experiments through strong assay robustness and error-free execution.

D. People Responsibilities

• Mentor junior team members on ADME assay execution, data analysis, and instrument handling.
• Foster a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, and knowledge sharing across the discovery teams.
• Provide training on new assays, safety practices, LC-MS/MS operations, and automation tools.
• Demonstrate collaboration with Medicinal Chemistry, Biology, and PK/PD teams by ensuring timely delivery of ADME insights.

E. Risk & Compliance Responsibilities

• Ensure adherence to internal SOPs, quality standards, and audit requirements.
• Follow all safety guidelines related to chemical handling, biohazards, waste disposal, and lab operations.
• Conduct periodic instrument checks, calibration, and preventive maintenance to avoid operational risks.
• Maintain strict data integrity (ALCOA+), traceability, and documentation discipline.
• Flag scientific, operational, or compliance risks (e.g., assay drift, QC failures) proactively.

3. Behavioural Competencies

(Aligned with PI Industries / PIHS leadership attributes—Curious, Creative, Courageous, Caring)

1. Scientific Curiosity

• Continuously explores new techniques, ADME tools, predictive modelling, and literature.

2. Collaboration & Cross-Functional Partnership

• Works seamlessly with Chemistry, Biology, Toxicology, and PK/PD teams.
• Communicates data clearly, proactively, and purposefully.

3. Problem-Solving & Analytical Thinking

• Identifies root causes in assay performance issues and proposes smart solutions.

4. Planning & Execution Discipline

• Delivers consistent, high-quality data within agreed timelines.
• Manages workload in a fast-paced discovery environment.

5. Ownership & Accountability

• Takes responsibility for experiment design, execution, reporting, and data integrity.

6. Innovation Orientation

• Suggests process improvements, new assays, automation enhancements, and efficiency tools.

7. Compliance Mindset

• Adheres to SOPs, safety standards, documentation rules, and audit expectations.