• Principal Research Scientist VI

    Actalent (Lexington, MA)


    Overview

     

    We are seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to serve as a DMPK Project Representative within an expanding small molecule research portfolio. In this role, you will provide scientific leadership and integrate DMPK strategies to advance drug discovery projects across multiple therapeutic areas. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage outsourced studies, and act as a subject matter expert both internally and externally.

    Key Responsibilities

    + Serve as the DMPK representative on global, cross-functional small molecule project teams to achieve project milestones.

    + Provide expert guidance on experimental plans and data interpretation, with deep expertise in ADME/PK/DDI or PK/PD modeling and simulation.

    + Troubleshoot complex scientific challenges independently and collaboratively.

    + Design, implement, and interpret DMPK studies in partnership with CROs.

    + Analyze and integrate complex datasets to drive informed decisions and communicate results to stakeholders.

    + Ensure accurate documentation of all experiments and data.

    + Actively participate in cross-functional meetings and contribute to project strategy.

    + Share knowledge and mentor team members to expand organizational capabilities.

    + Represent the organization at scientific conferences and global meetings through presentations and publications.

    Required Qualifications

    + Ph.D. with ~6–10+ years of project-facing experience OR

    + Master’s degree with 12+ years OR Bachelor’s degree with 18+ years relevant experience.

    + Proven expertise in metabolism, biotransformation, or PK/PD modeling (depth in at least one area).

    + Minimum 3+ years actively contributing to discovery project teams (hit-to-lead, lead optimization).

    + Strong understanding of ADME principles, drug-drug interaction risks, clearance pathways, and biotransformation.

    + Ability to correlate in vitro potency with in vivo outcomes.

    + Demonstrated thought leadership through publications, abstracts, or posters.

    Soft Skills

    + Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

    + Ability to manage multiple priorities and solve complex problems proactively.

    + Comfortable interacting with chemists, pharmacologists, and cross-functional colleagues.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lexington, MA.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $71.00 - $71.00/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Lexington,MA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Dec 25, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.