Principal Scientist PSTS Transl. PK

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at https://www.jnj.com

Job Function:

Discovery & Pre-Clinical/Clinical Development

Job Sub Function:

Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacometrics

Job Category:

Scientific/Technology

All Job Posting Locations:

Beerse, Antwerp, Belgium

Job Description:

Our expertise in Innovative Medicine is informed and inspired by patients, whose insights fuel our science-based advancements. Visionaries like you work on teams that save lives by developing the medicines of tomorrow.

Join us in developing treatments, finding cures, and pioneering the path from lab to life while championing patients every step of the way.

Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/innovative-medicine

The department of Translational Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics & Investigative Toxicology (TPPIT) at Johnson & Johnson operates at the forefront of innovative drug discovery, dedicated to advancing a broad spectrum of therapeutic modalities—including small and large molecules, genetic medicines, and cell & gene therapies. Our mission is to deliver impactful, safe, and effective treatments across key therapeutic areas by integrating cutting-edge science with translational insights.

To strengthen our dynamic team in Beerse (Belgium), we are seeking a Senior/Principal Scientist – Discovery DMPK Project Lead. This role offers an exciting opportunity to develop the future of our pipeline through innovation, science and strategic leadership.

About the Role

In this modality-agnostic position, you will lead the development and execution of translational pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and investigative toxicology strategies to guide our multidisciplinary discovery teams. You will serve as a scientific leader, providing expertise across all stages of drug discovery—spanning early lead identification to clinical candidate selection—while ensuring alignment with company and regulatory standards.

You will:

• Compose, coordinate, and interpret preclinical ADME/DMPK and pharmacology studies across modalities, collaborating with subject matter experts.
• Develop innovative DMPK and PKPD strategies to support project decision-making and guide candidate optimization and lead selection.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and methodologies in the field of translational sciences, including emerging modalities and bioanalytical techniques.
• Serve as a scientific partner on project teams, providing strategic mentorship and integrating DMPK insights into program development.
• Communicate scientific data effectively to cross-functional teams, management, and stakeholders.
• Contribute to regulatory submissions by preparing and reviewing pharmacokinetics and metabolism sections.

Key Qualifications

• Educational background in biological, chemical, pharmacological sciences, or related fields, with relevant industry experience (≥3-5 years) in preclinical or clinical DMPK.
• Expert knowledge of ADME/DMPK principles for multiple modalities—including small molecules, genetic medicines, and large molecules—coupled with a strong understanding of their relationship to pharmacology, PKPD, and non-clinical safety evaluation.
• Proven track record to develop, initiate, and lead all aspects of DMPK/ADME studies with a solid understanding of regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated track record of applying innovative DMPK technologies to advance understanding and project decisions.
• Deep understanding of PKPD principles and their application to clinical translation, including PKPD/QSP modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a global environment, multitask, and adapt to evolving priorities.
• Curious spirit, comfortable challenging the status quo, and passionate about following the science.

What We Offer

• An innovative and collaborative environment where your contributions will directly impact our pipeline and shape the future of therapeutics.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, mentorship, and career growth within a global organization.
• The chance to work at a site that integrates all facets of drug discovery, located near the vibrant city of Antwerp.
• Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, health & wellness programs, and support for work-life balance.
• An inclusive and diverse team where your ideas and perspectives are valued.

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