Sr. Scientist, DMPK

Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (Nasdaq: CNTA) new kind of pharmaceutical company with a deconstructed R&D environment that prioritizes data driven decision making led by subject matter experts. Centessa is advancing a portfolio of high conviction programs with strong biological validation.

Our asset-centric model offers a unique R&D logic that has been applied by single asset companies to improve productivity. This operating model has minimal centralized infrastructure, reduced hierarchy, and exclusive focus on data driven capital allocation. Our teams are uniquely incentivized to expeditiously interrogate key scientific hypotheses. We believe the asset-centric model can lead to improved success rates for programs with greater speed and modest costs.

Description of Role

Centessa is seeking a Senior Scientist in Discovery DMPK to partner with pharmacologists and medicinal chemists to support the identification of lead candidates with optimal DMPK properties for potential progression into development. Reporting to the Executive Director, DMPK, this role requires understanding of pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic (PK/PD), and ADME principles to enable triaging & progression of small molecule leads. A qualified candidate will have previous experience in PK and PK/PD modeling, ideally for CNS drug candidates, and an understanding of vital ADME properties for CNS drug candidate progression.

Key Responsibilities

• Design profiling strategies (including in vitro ADME assays) to evaluate compounds and series emerging from hit identification effort
• Design PK/PD strategies to advance lead identification and optimization series
• Protocol development and data analysis of PK and PK/PD studies for proof-of-concept studies
• Review statements of work (SOWs) to ensure alignment with project objectives
• Analyze and interpret in vitro and in vivo PK and PK/PD data, ensuring accuracy and consistency
• Utilize AI tools in prediction of PK properties and guide the use of such technology in supporting SAR development in lead identification and optimization phases
• Author and review compound checklists for drug candidate progression
• Represent the DMPK function in project team meetings; present results and contribute to data-driven decision-making.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology or a related field
• Minimum of 4 years of industry experience in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting
• Proficiency with Phoenix WinNonlin and other software for PK and PK/PD modeling in small molecule drug discovery is essential
• Previous work in the early discovery and lead optimization of CNS drug candidates is essential
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally and communicate scientific findings clearly and effectively
• Collaborative mindset and sense of urgency
• Proactive and excellent communication skills

Compensation

The annual base salary range for this position is $160,000 - $180,000. Individual compensation within this range will be determined based on a variety of factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and job knowledge.

In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus and participation in our equity program, allowing you to share in Centessa’s long-term success.

Centessa also offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a 401(k) plan, company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, generous paid time off, and a health and wellness program.

Work Location

The Sr. Scientist, DMPK is a remote role based in the US, with infrequent travel (~10%).

POSITION: Full-Time, Exempt

EEOC Statement: Centessa Pharmaceuticals believes in a diverse environment and is committed to equal employment opportunity for all its employees and qualified applicants. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Centessa Pharmaceuticals will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Please note: We will not assign referral rights for any unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies.