Researcher in bioanalysis of drugs

The Department of Pharmacy at Uppsala University has an interdisciplinary environment at the center of the pharmaceutical arena. With frontline research, first-rate education and extensive collaborations we constitute an important driving force. In this inspiring environment our rich diversity of research groups, several of international prominence, develop and conduct work of great scientific importance. Among our core competencies are in vitro ADME models, advanced in vivo methods, computational modelling and simulations, as well as patient and societal aspects, from optimizing the use of drugs in individuals to pharmaceutical policies. Together, we form a unique cluster of academic competencies within pharmaceutical science, playing a key role in shaping the future of pharmacy in both Sweden and globally.

Our scientific focus areas in selection: Biopharmaceutics • Clinical Pharmacy • Drug Delivery • Molecular Pharmaceutics • Pharmaceutics and Nanotechnology • Pharmacoeconomics • Pharmacoepidemiology • Pharmacokinetics • Pharmacometrics • Pharmacotherapy • Social Pharmacy

More information at: Department of Pharmacy

Project description:

The Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, is now looking for a researcher in bioanalysis who will contribute to pharmaceutical research projects within the department. The position will be shared between two units: Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (tPKPD) group and Uppsala University Drug Optimization and Pharmaceutical Profiling (UDOPP).

• Translational Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics group tPKPD
• Uppsala University Drug Optimization and Pharmaceutical Profiling UDOPP

The tPKPD group works with fundamental and functional aspects of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, especially regarding drug transport to the central and peripheral nervous system (CNS/PNS). We are particularly interested in drug transport across the CNS/PNS barriers of both small and large molecules. This is of paramount importance to optimize drug development and promote effective treatment of CNS/PNS diseases.

UDOPP is a unit at the Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, which is also affiliated to SciLifeLab Drug Discovery and Development platform (DDD). The unit's main task is to carry out in vitro ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion) and pharmacokinetic (PK) investigations and profiling of medicinal substances under the so-called lead generation/optimization phase in collaboration with academic research groups. The facility also offers services in bioanalysis using LC-MS/MS technology.

The researcher will focus on the bioanalysis of marketed drugs and novel drug candidates using the UPLC-MS/MS method.

Work duties: The researcher will primarily devote time to:

• Developing bioanalytical UPLC-MS/M methods for small molecules and peptides in complex biological matrices such as blood, and brain with rapid turnaround times, for subsequent assay qualification and sample analysis.
• The selected candidate will be responsible for sample preparation and quantitative analysis of in vitro and in vivo samples of small molecules and peptides using UPLC-MS/MS technology
• Ensuring work is conducted, documented, and reported, archived in line with group practices and governing policies, and with collaborators' requirements where appropriate.
• Taking an active role in the preparation of the reports, laboratory SOPs, and publications as well as participation in networking events and expert groups.
• Performing analytical troubleshooting as well as basic maintenance of Acquity UPLC coupled with Xevo TQ-S Micro triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Waters Corporation, Milford, MA, USA).
• Training and mentoring less experienced team members including students on equipment, routines, and safety.
• Identifying new technologies, which could be of significant benefit to the group, improving capability or reducing operational costs.
• Updating the laboratory database of chemicals (KLARA) and ordering laboratory supplies.
• The researcher will be a member of the respective project's multidisciplinary team (including chemists, biologists, pharmacologists and toxicologists) to meet project goals and timelines

Requirements: The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical, chemical engineering, or related areas.

Special weight is put on:

• Experience with small molecule UPLC-MS/MS method development, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Extensive experience in quantitative triple quadrupole mass spectrometry paired with liquid chromatography, in particular, Acquity UPLC coupled with Xevo TQ-Sµ (Waters Corp).
• Expertise in the development of sample extraction and work-up methods.
• Proficiency in the use of relevant software e.g. MassLynx.
• Thorough understanding of the regulated bioanalysis guidelines from the FDA and EMA.
• General knowledge of GCP, GCLP, GLP, Data protection, Safety, and Research Ethics guidelines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively present scientific findings to colleagues.
• Scientific data interpretation, reporting, writing publications, and presentation skills.
• Experience in research project coordination involving pharmaceutical companies or similar leadership skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and ability to communicate with laboratory members and project team members.

The applicant is expected to have high integrity, motivation, flexibility and the ability to work in a structured and efficient manner. Excellent social skills, as well as the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams is essential. Collaborative skills, initiative and commitment to satisfy partners are expected.

Additional qualifications: Knowledge of the structure and function of barriers of the nervous system including the blood-brain barrier, as well as a good understanding of transport mechanisms across the barriers is valuable, as is experience with basic pharmacokinetics.

How to apply

The application should contain the following:

• A personal letter in which the applicant describes her- or himself, motivates why he/she has applied for the position, states relevant qualifications, and indicates research interests and plans for the future,
• A CV including a list of publications,
• Contact details of at least two references.
• Degree certificate, as well as other relevant documentation.

We only accept applications with the requirements outlined above.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position, 12 months. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1 April 2025 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Assoc. Professor Irena Loryan, e-mail mail to: irena.loryan@uu.se, 471 4995, Assoc. Prof Pawel Baranczewski, pawel.baranczewski@uu.se, tel 018-471 4067 or HR-generalist Pernilla Larsson, pernilla.larsson@farmaci.uu.se, 471 5394.

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Please submit your application by 7 March 2025, UFV-PA 2025/520.

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