Pharma Computational Modeling Expert

ZS; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

ZS Associates is seeking a Computational Modeling Expert to apply advanced modeling, AI/ML, and first-principles approaches to pharmaceutical CMC challenges. You will translate complex scientific questions into scalable computational solutions and work with scientists, engineers, and senior leaders to drive decisions.

You will lead modeling workstreams, integrate models with ELN/LIMS/ERP/PLM, and contribute to reusable assets while traveling to client sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in pharmaceutical CMC, process development, or related field.
• Experience building first-principles or mechanistic models for pharmaceutical processes.
• Experience applying AI/ML to scientific or process-development problems.
• Strong programming skills and production-quality code lifecycle experience.
• Understanding of CMC concepts and regulatory milestones.

Responsibilities

• Partner with pharmaceutical CMC clients to identify high-value opportunities for modeling and AI/ML.
• Develop first-principles and mechanistic models (CFD, DEM, computational chemistry) for process challenges.
• Build AI/ML models to complement first-principles approaches and improve understanding.
• Translate scientific questions into modeling strategies and implementation plans.
• Assess data availability and determine appropriate modeling methods and techniques.
• Develop robust, reusable, production-ready modeling solutions with testing and deployment.
• Integrate models with ELN, LIMS, ERP, and PLM systems.
• Interpret results and present clear recommendations to scientists and senior leaders.
• Lead technical workstreams across process development, data science, engineering, and manufacturing.
• Contribute to ZS capabilities and reusable modeling assets.

Skills

First-principles modeling

AI/ML modeling

CFD

DEM

Computational chemistry

Programming

Data-driven modeling

Stakeholder comms

Leadership

Education

Bachelors/Masters/PhD in STEM

Tools

ELN

LIMS

ERP

PLM

Job description

ZS Associates is seeking a Computational Modeling Expert to apply advanced modeling, AI/ML, and first-principles approaches to pharmaceutical CMC challenges. You will translate complex scientific questions into scalable computational solutions and work with scientists, engineers, and senior leaders to drive decisions.

You will lead modeling workstreams, integrate models with ELN/LIMS/ERP/PLM, and contribute to reusable assets while traveling to client sites as needed.