Associate Director, Non-Clinical PK

Position Overview

Plays a crucial role in implemeting Pharmacokinetic and/or Pharmacodynamic modeling.

Conceives experimental strategies and leads and participates in the design and conduct of experiments in biological systems to characterize and validate ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination) properties of NCE (new chemical entities) and biologics to prioritize them for further multidimensional optimization. Has a track record of impacting Medicinal Chemistry efforts as a functional Pharmacokinetic representative. Utilizes state of the art Pharmacokinetic (PK) Software packages to analyze and interpret PK results from in vitro and/or in vivo experiments. Plays a crucial role in implemeting Pharmacokinetic and/or Pharmacodynamic modeling. Interprets, communicates experimental findings and documents according to approved Nektar policy. Maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories, and evaluates and incorporates new PK modeling concepts by reviewing relevant preclinical and clinical literature. Will reperesent DMPK function on Discovery and Development teams, as necessary. May manage junior scientists and research associates. This position contributes to and supports the company's research and development efforts to create high value therapeutics to address unmet medical needs.

Works on complex problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Exercises judgment within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting, and may recommend new methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Works on complex ADME and Pharmacodynamic problems in which problem solving requires multidimensional analysis. Applies modeling and simulation for analysis and translation. Is task oriented and exercises judgment to pursue corporate goals in the most efficient manner. Identifies compound liabilities and proposes strategies for mitigation. Communicates results and interpretations effectively and timely to the appropriate audience. Is an influential DMPK representative on project teams. Explores and evaluates novel and creative approaches to expedite drug discovery. Provides cross-functional expertise. May act as spokesperson on corporate research/technology/development and advise senior management. May independently represent the Company to outside organizations. Builds strong relationships with various departments, customers and partners. Serves as a role model and provides training as required. Plans and coordinates activities with other team members. Writes and/or approves complex reports and protocols. Identifies needs for additional resources. May assist with designing and implementing organizational processes, budgetary and capital equipment requirements, and identifies needs for additional resources.

A PhD in pharmacokinetic and/or other relevant scientific discipline is required. Equivalent experience may be accepted. A minimum of 10 years work experience in a research and/or development environment is required. Five years or more are required as a functional DMPK representative on drug discovery teams in large and/or mid-sized companies. Proficiency in Phoenix®WinNonlin® is a must. Experience with GastroPlus ™ and ADMETPredictor™ is a plus. Must be able to demonstrate significant success in multidimesional optimization of NCE's. Must have experience with biologics. Experienced with IND enabling studies. Applies state of the art concepts, such as modeling and simulation. Must be a thought leader and able to influence teams. Must be a superior communicator both written and orally. A publication record in peer reviewed journals is required. Must be able to demonstrate sound judgment. Must be able to demonstrate problem solving capabilities. Strong organizational skills are required. Must be task oriented. Must be proficient in MS word, Excel, and Power point. Experience working in an FDA regulated environment and knowledge of current GMPs as they apply to laboratory practices are highly desired. Previous management skills are a plus. Must be willing to work as part of a team.Must be able to demonstrate good interpersonal skills.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Nektar Therapeutics will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in the manner proscribed by the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.