Postdoctoral Research Associate - Rheumatology

Position Summary

A drug development team at Washington University School of Medicine is currently looking for a post-doctoral candidate. The role involves utilizing computational models and tools to drive the end-to-end development of novel drug formulation processes. The successful candidate will apply simulation techniques to solve research problems related to fluid flows, multiphase flows, and powder/granular flows in new drug formulations. 
 
We are looking for candidates with experience in engineering or pharmaceutical computational techniques. Required skills include proficiency in discrete element method (DEM), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), process models and flowsheets, statistical techniques, population-balance models (PBM), and engineering models. Upon joining the team, applicants are required to hold a doctoral (PhD) degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Physical Sciences, or a related discipline with a focus on computational modeling. 
 
This role necessitates close collaboration with other scientists in the team. Candidates must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to actively implement and experimentally validate modeling in new drug development through collaborative efforts. A desire to learn wet lab skills is considered a plus.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborates with the principal investigator to gain a deep understanding of formulation processes and apply computational tools to drive formulation and process design, optimization, troubleshooting, and implementation. 
• Utilizes various computational techniques, including discrete element method (DEM), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), process models and flowsheets (e.g., gPROMS, ASPEN, Comsol), statistical techniques, population-balance models (PBM), and first-principles engineering models, to develop predictive tools and models that enhance drug development and formulation efforts. 
• Sets-up flow system to implement computational formulation design. 
• Works effectively in a matrix environment with minimal supervision. Defines problem statements and develop and execute modeling work plans. Collaborates with other scientists to experimentally evaluate the implemented formulations. 
• Collaborates with team members to integrate digital tools into new drug development workflows. 
• Contributes to the completion of peer-reviewed publications, sharing insights and findings from modeling and computational work. 

Required Qualifications

• Must have expertise in modeling of fluid flows, multiphase flows, and/or powder/granular flows. 
• Expertise using discrete element modeling (DEM) and/or computational fluid dynamics (CFD) during graduate/professional research. Proficiency with other modeling techniques applied to granular/multiphase flows will also be considered (such as process modeling and flowsheets, finite element modeling, population-balance models, multiscale modeling, etc.).  
• Capability and willingness to design, execute (hands-on) laboratory experiments to support modeling efforts. Must demonstrate good problem-solving skills.  
• Ability to learn quickly and apply knowledge to new situations. 
• Candidate must be proficient in fundamental engineering/physical concepts such as mass, momentum, and energy transport phenomenon; and a mathematical ability to setup and solve linear, non-linear, and differential equations.  
• Strong programming/coding skills and experience with numerical techniques is required. Proficient in programming using some standard language: Python, Matlab, R, C/C++, etc. 
• Ability to deliver results in a timely manner.  
• Work effectively as part of cross-functional teams and embrace team work.  
• Must be able to communicate ideas and results with colleagues with diverse backgrounds.  
• Demonstrated track record of publications, presentations, and/or patents. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• A solid scientific understanding of physical processes, including powder and fluid rheology, dissolution kinetics, and chemical kinetics, particularly in relation to bio-performance. 
• Proficiency in working within a high-performance computing environment. Preferred experience includes working with software such as EDEM, LIGGGHTS, XPS, CFDEM, ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, STAR-CCM+, PSE gPROMS Formulated Products, ASPEN, or other closely-related packages. 
• Familiarity with data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Spotfire or Tableau) is desirable.  
• Strong statistical skills. 

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.