Principal Pharmacologist

Placements24; London Borough of Newham; Hybrid; GBP 54,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Healthcare coverage

Bonus program

Relocation assistance

Professional development

cutting-edge facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Pharmacologist to lead preclinical pharmacology efforts in a hybrid role based in East London. You will design and interpret complex pharmacology studies, mentor junior scientists, and drive regulatory submissions.

You will collaborate with discovery teams and CROs, stay abreast of industry advances, and contribute to the strategic direction of the company’s drug discovery portfolio. A PhD with 8+ years in the field is required.

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmacology, Toxicology, or a closely related biomedical science field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in preclinical pharmacology within pharma/biotech.
• Proven expertise in designing and executing complex in vivo efficacy models.
• Strong knowledge of DMPK principles and regulatory guidelines (FDA/EMA).
• Experience with assay development and data interpretation in pharmacology.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo and in vitro pharmacology studies.
• Develop and validate pharmacology models for various therapeutic areas.
• Collaborate with discovery teams to advance drug candidates.
• Provide expert input for regulatory submissions (IND).
• Lead and mentor junior pharmacologists and researchers.
• Prepare study reports, manuscripts, and regulatory documents.
• Present findings at governance meetings and conferences.
• Stay current with pharmacology literature and CRO collaborations.
• Contribute to strategic direction of the drug discovery portfolio.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Scientific writing

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory knowledge

Strategic thinking

Education

PhD in Pharmacology or Toxicology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading biopharmaceutical company with a strong research focus, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Pharmacologist to join their esteemed team in East London , Eastern Cape. This senior role is instrumental in driving preclinical drug discovery and development programs by providing expert pharmacological insights and leading complex studies. You will be responsible for designing, executing, and interpreting in vivo and in vitro pharmacology studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of novel therapeutic candidates. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of disease mechanisms, drug action, and regulatory requirements, coupled with strong leadership and communication skills. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of groundbreaking medicines within a collaborative and state-of-the-art research environment in South Africa . The hybrid work model supports both focused lab work and strategic planning from home.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo and in vitro pharmacology studies to assess the efficacy and mechanism of action of drug candidates.
• Develop and validate novel pharmacological models relevant to therapeutic areas of interest.
• Collaborate with discovery teams (chemistry, biology, DMPK) to advance drug candidates through the pipeline.
• Provide expert pharmacological input for regulatory submissions (e.g., IND applications).
• Mentor and guide junior pharmacologists and research associates.
• Author high-quality study reports, research manuscripts, and regulatory documents.
• Present research findings at internal governance meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and advancements in pharmacology and relevant therapeutic areas.
• Manage external collaborations with CROs and academic institutions.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's drug discovery portfolio.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Toxicology, or a closely related biomedical science field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in preclinical pharmacology within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Proven expertise in designing and executing complex in vivo efficacy models and understanding of various therapeutic areas.
• Strong knowledge of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK) principles.
• Experience with assay development and interpretation of in vitro pharmacology data.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and experience managing research projects and personnel.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a strong publication record.
• Familiarity with regulatory guidelines for preclinical drug development (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing lab-based work with remote responsibilities.
• Must be eligible to work in East London , South Africa .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package reflective of experience and leadership.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and conference participation.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and resources.
• A dynamic, collaborative, and scientifically stimulating work environment.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition programs.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.