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Phd Drug Development Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA

Senior Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

The group plays an integral part in the design and development of patient centric drug products ... Experience: * BS, MS, or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering ...

... drug development. PDS works with customers to develop new methods, validate existing methods, as ... Our expert scientists perform large molecule bioanalysis, assay development, validation, and sample ...

Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$65K - $108K/yr

Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment ... PhD in Biology, Life Sciences, or related fields. * Minimum of TWO (2) years of laboratory research ...

Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment ... Work with the scientific staff to define key questions emerging from research projects in which ...

Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment ... Work with the scientific staff to define key questions emerging from research projects in which ...

Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment ... Work with the scientific staff to define key questions emerging from research projects in which ...

Showing results 41-60

Phd Drug Development Scientist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$21

$40

$64

How much do phd drug development scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd drug development scientist in Reston, VA is $40.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.52 and $48.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD drug development scientists during the transition from discovery to clinical trials?

PhD Drug Development Scientists often encounter challenges when moving a promising compound from the discovery phase to clinical trials, such as ensuring the drug's safety profile, scalability of synthesis, and regulatory compliance. Balancing scientific rigor with tight project timelines requires strong project management and cross-functional collaboration with regulatory, clinical, and manufacturing teams. Additionally, adapting to evolving regulatory requirements and troubleshooting unexpected preclinical results are common hurdles. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for advancing new therapies to patients and offers valuable experience for career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD drug development scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Drug Development Scientist, you need deep expertise in pharmacology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, typically backed by a doctoral degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and regulatory documentation systems is crucial, as are certifications like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Clinical Practice (GCP). Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective collaboration and communication skills help you navigate complex research and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure rigorous scientific discovery, regulatory compliance, and successful advancement of drug candidates from research through clinical development.

What is the difference between Phd Drug Development Scientist vs Pharmacologist?

AspectPhd Drug Development ScientistPharmacologist
Required CredentialsPhD in Pharmacology, Chemistry, or related fieldPhD or MD in Pharmacology or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firmsResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare settings
Industry UsageDeveloping new drugs, conducting preclinical studiesStudying drug effects, mechanisms, and interactions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Phd Drug Development Scientist focuses on designing and developing new drugs through research and preclinical testing, while the Pharmacologist studies how drugs work in the body, including their effects and interactions. Both roles require advanced degrees and are integral to the pharmaceutical industry, but they differ in their primary focus and daily responsibilities.

What does a PhD drug development scientist do?

A PhD Drug Development Scientist is responsible for researching, designing, and conducting experiments to develop new pharmaceutical drugs or improve existing ones. They typically work in laboratories within pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or academic institutions. Their work involves understanding disease mechanisms, identifying drug targets, optimizing drug candidates, and ensuring safety and efficacy through preclinical and clinical trials. They also analyze data, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and comply with regulatory standards throughout the drug development process.
What are popular job titles related to Phd Drug Development Scientist jobs in Reston, VA? For Phd Drug Development Scientist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Phd Drug Development Scientist jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Drug Development Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Phd Drug Development Scientist jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Phd Drug Development Scientist job openings:

Senior Scientist

Fladger Associates

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Gaithersburg, MD
Contract Duration: 12-36 months
Rate: Negotiable

Responsibilities:

  • Excellent employment opportunity for a Senior Scientist in the Gaithersburg, MD area.
  • The Late-Stage Formulation Sciences Group is responsible for development of intended commercial formulations to advance the late-stage biologics portfolio, and the life cycle management of commercialized products.
  • The group plays an integral part in the design and development of patient centric drug products.
  • This is a Scientific position, and the incumbent will be responsible for late-stage formulation development of biologic products.
  • Will be involved in the design and execution of formulation risk assessments and characterization studies, and development formulation control strategies for Drug Substance and Drug Product.
  • Ensure robustness of intended commercial formulations, suitability for intended use of container closure/packaging systems, and in-use compatibility with clinical administration components.
  • Expected to exercise technical discretion and scientific rigor in experimental protocol design, data analysis, and results interpretation.
  • Other responsibilities include authoring of marketing applications and provision of support to regulatory responses to approval.
  • Develop new strategies and approaches to advance late-stage formulation development and deliver scientific and operational objectives.

Experience:

  • BS, MS, or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, applied Sciences
  • Knowledge of protein biochemistry and degradation mechanisms, biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes, combination drug products, and/or biophysical analytical methods is required.
  • Hands-on experience with high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), particle characterization and sizing (e.g., light obscuration), and aggregate characterization methods are strongly preferred.
  • Experience with formulation and biopharmaceutical development, characterization, control strategy, quality risk management, and/or CMC regulatory guidance and filings is preferred.
  • Skills leading, planning, and executing complex projects on tight timelines are important.