Principal Scientist/Sr. Principal Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Development

Job Description

The position is responsible for chemical development technical leadership of projects within the CMC function across Scorpion’s portfolio. 

Chemical Development has responsibility for all aspects of small molecule drug substance activities from late-stage Discovery (synthetic route evaluation, polymorphism, form selection, development candidate nomination), through early-stage clinical development, and commercialization of late-stage assets.  The candidate will ensure success on all drug substance deliverables by scientific leadership leveraging internal and external expertise and resources.  They will also be responsible for strategic and scientific alignment of chemical development activities with the overall program needs.

The candidate should have a proven track record of leadership, mentorship, and technical achievement working within a cross-functional matrix environment.  They should be a leader in the scientific community, capable of effectively managing technical issues within their function and providing expertise throughout the company.  This individual should actively maintain and champion state-of-the-art scientific and technical knowledge, implementing creative ways to solve challenging problems for new and ongoing projects.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry with 10+ years relevant experience in chemical development roles within the pharmaceutical industry
• Expertise in phase-appropriate small molecule chemical development, including route evaluation, optimization and cGMP manufacture
• Extensive knowledge of advanced chemistry principles and theories; expertise in complex synthetic processes for drug substance and application of control strategies through all stages of development
• Knowledge and experience of solid-state chemistry with regard to polymorphism and salt selection
• Expertise in experimental design, including the use of DoE and process characterization
• Demonstrated ability to set clear and measurable goals, managing tasks and resources
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organization, and planning skills and a high level of technical aptitude and creativity
• Deep knowledge of relevant quality and regulatory guidelines with the ability to apply these as part of a regulatory submission strategy
• Ability to implement new technologies
• Ability to develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and budgets
• Proven track record of building strong collaborations and relationships with external CDMOs, internal technical leads and project teams