[Hiring] Principal Scientist, Formulation Development @Praxis Precision Medicines, Inc.

Role Description

We’re looking for a Principal Scientist, Formulation Development to lead drug product development from early discovery through late-stage clinical development. You’ll translate promising compounds into robust, phase-appropriate formulations and scalable manufacturing processes, partnering closely with Discovery, CMC, Regulatory, and external development partners. This role combines deep formulation expertise with hands-on scientific leadership. You’ll shape development strategy, solve complex technical challenges, oversee work at CDMOs, and help move programs forward with urgency and sound judgment. The ideal candidate is technically strong, curious, highly collaborative, and comfortable taking ownership in an agile environment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead formulation strategy across programs, representing Formulation/Pharmaceutical Development on CMC and multidisciplinary project teams and clearly communicating strategy, risks, tradeoffs, and recommendations.
• Design, oversee, and interpret formulation studies to characterize novel drug candidates, including small molecules and/or ASOs, and translate learnings into development decisions.
• Develop phase-appropriate formulations and manufacturing processes using sound formulation, material characterization, and pharmaceutical manufacturing principles.
• Partner with Discovery and other functions to provide timely, high-quality formulation support for preclinical studies and enable efficient progression into clinical development.
• Drive technical execution with CDMOs, providing scientific oversight for formulation and process development and ensuring external activities meet Praxis quality, timing, and clinical manufacturing needs.
• Author and contribute to technical and regulatory documents, including formulation development reports and CMC sections of INDs, IMPDs, NDAs, and related submissions.
• Influence and enable others by guiding scientists and external partners, bringing together cross-functional teams, and anticipating and resolving issues before they slow program progress.

Qualifications

• PhD in pharmaceutical sciences, chemical or biochemical engineering, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline, with 8+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Deep understanding of physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties and how they inform formulation and drug product design.
• Demonstrated experience leading formulation development and manufacturing process development from early-stage work through clinical supply.
• Strong scientific judgment and a track record of creative problem-solving in complex development environments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence across functions and communicate directly and clearly.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high bar for quality.
• Self-directed and comfortable making decisions, challenging assumptions, and taking ownership without waiting for direction.
• Brings curiosity, innovation, urgency, integrity, and confidence to the work and thrives in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.

Requirements

• The physical and mental requirements of our roles include but are not limited to regular use of a computer, devices or other office equipment, clear communication, and occasional movement.
• Comfort with screen work, basic hand coordination, and focus.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Benefits

• 99% of the premium paid for medical, dental and vision plans.
• Company-paid life insurance, AD&D, disability benefits, and voluntary plans to personalize your coverage.
• Dollar-for-dollar match up to 6% on eligible 401(k) contributions.
• Long-term stock incentives and ESPP.
• Discretionary quarterly bonus.
• Extremely flexible wellness benefit.
• Generous PTO, paid holidays, and company-wide shutdowns.
• Join a phenomenal crew of colleagues who are smart, engaged, and inspiring.

Company Description

Praxis Precision Medicines is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company translating genetic insights into the development of therapies for central nervous system disorders characterized by neuronal imbalance. At Praxis, we share a common vision of reshaping the human condition into a more freeing and fulfilled existence by developing high impact medicines for patients and families affected by and living with complex brain disorders. Our core Values of Trust, Ownership, Curiosity, and Results are foundational to every aspect of our business and are exemplified by each and every one of our team members.