Preclinical (Animal Studies) Research Scientist/Technician: Aciont Inc.

Company

Aciont Inc. is a Salt Lake City , Utah based privately held specialty bio-pharmaceutical company endeavoring to be the world leader in ophthalmic drug delivery using its proprietary topical sustained release formulations and drug penetration enhancement methodologies (e.g., iontophoresis). We are pioneering research in ocular delivery to safely and non-invasively deliver therapeutics into the back of the eye for treating sight threatening diseases such as uveitis, diabetic macular edema and age-related macular degeneration. Aciont is located off the 600 North exit off I-15, about a mile from the downtown Gateway Plaza . Work also is performed on the campus of the University of Utah .

Responsibilities

This position requires a highly innovative individual who thrives on being challenged on multiple tasks in a dynamic, fast-paced, exciting, and highly collaborative work environment. The job entails at least 80% laboratory work.

Incumbent scientist/research technician is responsible for carrying out in vivo experiments in animal models for ocular diseases. Reporting to a group leader will be responsible for determining the efficacy of test compounds in these models as well as designing and conducting toxicology, PK/PD studies of test compounds. Will also participate in the development of in vitro assays to efficiently screen and characterize test compounds. The candidate will analyze scientific results, provide oral and written reports, and remain current with regard to literature reports and technological developments.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements include an undergraduate degree in the life sciences such as chemistry or biology or an advanced degree in ophthalmology. The candidate will have experience and expertise in in vivo pharmaceutical chemistry and will have strong hands-on skills with a wide variety of animal models (PK, safety and efficacy) in the area of ophthalmology or a related field in drug delivery. Minimum of 3 years industrial pharmaceutical development experience, preferably in the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical industry; broad scientific foundation, good oral and written communication, and ability to function in an interdisciplinary team setting are essential. Special consideration will go to candidates with any of the following skill sets:

• Expertise in micro- and/or nanoencapsulation technology
• Broad knowledge of biocompatible polymers, hydrogels and biomaterials
• Drug release and product stability testing
• Analytical methods including HPLC, UV/VIS spectrometry, and fluorescent spectrometry
• Knowledge of LC/MS highly desired

The successful candidate is a highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized team player with a commitment to quality. Incumbent possesses strong problem solving skills along with excellent written and verbal communication skills. The position needs to operate with minimum supervision and to exercise a high degree of judgment for experimentation and for problem solving. The successful candidate is a highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized team player with a commitment to quality. Incumbent possesses strong problem solving skills along with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Salary range: $40-75K depending level of experience.

Contact Information

Send your resume or CV which would be reviewed confidentially to: admin@aciont.com via e-mail or (801) 359-3464 via fax. Website: www.aciont.com.