Closing Date for Applications: 1 February 2013 Line of Management: Reports to Team Leader, Systems Pharmacology Group Position Type: Full Time Holiday Entitlement: 25 days, plus statutory bank holidays Salary: Commensurate with experience, plus pension contribution, health scheme etc. Job Overview: We have an immediate opening for a scientist with a background in the area of mathematical modelling and statistical data analysis to assist in the development of mechanistic models for small and large molecules within the Simcyp Simulator. Candidates should have experience of applied mathematics, biostatistics and data analysis in pharmacokinetics and/or pharmacodynamics related areas. This may include numerical solution of stiff and high-dimensional differential equations, the application of advanced optimisation techniques, optimal study design theory or Bayesian approaches in parameter estimation of large-scale, non-linear, time-varying systems. The successful applicant will join an internationally recognised, multidisciplinary team, providing opportunities for further development of knowledge and skills in the area of systems pharmacology. The post will also involve compiling physiological, biological and clinical data for development of various physiologically based pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PBPK-PD) models including those for large therapeutic molecules, e.g. mAb and therapeutic proteins. Developing models and robust statistical data analysis techniques for complex in vitro assays is another aspect of the post. In addition the successful applicant would be expected to contribute to the further development of the PD and Parameter Estimation capabilities of the Simulator.
Hence, candidates should have confidence in developing new mathematical models and optimisation techniques in in vitro and in vivo systems. The ability to carry out research independently is essential. The post does not include laboratory or clinical work. We offer a unique and exciting mix of academic and commercial environments which encourage regular attendance at scientific meetings as part of continuous education programs. The projects are scientifically challenging yet focus on solving practical issues relevant to modern drug development and hence collaborative work with pharmaceutical companies is part of the activities. All scientists are expected to participate in writing scientific reports relevant to their work under the guidance of our world-leading senior scientists within the group. Requirements: Essential * PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field: PKPD/Pharmacometrics; Physiologically-based Pharmacokinetic Modelling; Computational/Systems Biology; Bioinformatics and Data Analysis; Medical Statistics; Control Engineering or Applied Mathematics. * In-depth understanding of modelling and simulation principles and structured data analysis * Good understanding of a programming language and familiarity with at least one of the following software packages: WinNonlin, Adapt, NONMEM, WinBUGS, MONOLIX or any other commonly used PKPD tool; mathematical analysis/simulation platforms such as Matlab, acslX; statistical software such as S-PLUS/R/SAS. * Demonstrable communication skills, as evident by presentation at scientific meetings, and good interpersonal and organizational skills. Desirable * Some experience in modelling of biological processes * Some understanding of a programming language such as Fortran/C/C++/C# * Some knowledge of PK/PD properties of small and large molecules * Some knowledge of in vitro assays Company Overview: Simcyp is now part of Certara, a company which combines sophisticated research and development informatics with the power of predictive science methodologies to span the drug development spectrum and offer pharma a previously unavailable 'end-to-end' solution in the quest for improving human health. The Simcyp team conducts cutting-edge research and provides consultancy, knowledge integration tools, algorithms, modelling solutions and databases (implemented in its globally-recognised Simcyp Population-based Simulator) for a client base of major blue-chip pharmaceutical and biotechnology organisations. Simcyp focuses, in particular, on gathering information required for the modelling and simulation (M&S) of the individual time-course and fate of drugs. We are on course to become the global industry standard, consequently, there is a continuous requirement for high quality people to join us, help in our expansion and share in our success. Applications: Please send your CV, covering letter and the names of two references quoting SIM/RES/NM/JAN13 to: * Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> OR * Post: Recruitment, Simcyp Limited, The Blades Enterprise Centre, John Street, Sheffield, S2 4SU, United Kingdom
