MAIN PURPOSE OF POSITION

This position is responsible for the research and development DURECT’s platform polymer technologies.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·         Design and conduct studies aimed at improving our understanding of the compatibility and performance of biodegradable polymers in DURECT’s platform technologies.

·         Conduct/manage/assist with the design, synthesis, and characterization of new biodegradable polymers.

·         Improve performance of polymers  in DURECT’s platform technologies

·         Prepare/manage the preparation and review of protocols, reports, controlled documents, and invention disclosures related to polymer R&D activities.

·         Conduct/manage basic research and product development.

Knowledge/Education (Minimum Requirements) ·         PhD in Polymer Chemistry or a related field ·         Expert understanding in synthetic and physical polymer chemistry ·         Expert understanding of structure-property relationships of polymers ·         Understanding of biodegradation and biocompatibility of polymer materials (Preferred background) ·         Experience with pharmaceutical formulation development ·         Experience with development of controlled release formulations such as microparticles and in situ gelling systems ·         Expert understanding of rheology ·         Understanding of cGMP guidelines

Job Experience ·         3-6 years of related experience; 6+ years of related experience preferred Skills/Competencies ·         Skilled synthetic chemist ·         Ability to plan and execute experiments involving synthesis and characterization of polymer excipients ·         Instrumental methods including NMR, HPLC, GC, GPC, thermal analysis ·         Excellent oral and written communication skills, capable of generating and completing protocols, reports,  other documents and data summaries within needed timeframes ·         Must be detail oriented, flexible and willing to adapt to rapid changes in priorities.  ·         Ability to work well independently and as part of team ·         Proven ability to achieve consensus ·         Must possess the ability to set priorities and manage time well ·         Experience in statistical design of experiments and use of statistical software Essential Job Functions ·         Ability to walk, climb, stand, bend (neck and/or waist), kneel, reach, stoop, squat, twist (neck and/or waist), push, pull, and use of both hands for extended periods of time while performing tasks ·         Ability to lift, move and handle materials weighing up to 25 lbs unassisted WORKING CONDITIONS: ·         Work is normally performed in a typical office work environment / some warehouse work is needed ·         Light physical effort.  Requires handling of weighted object up to 10 pounds and some standing or walking.

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