RPM ReSearch
Montevallo, Alabama
11/12/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description Principal Scientist / Study Director (Toxicology) Build Programs. Lead Science. Influence Outcomes. Why This Role Matters Here, toxicology isn't just about executing studies-it's about shaping how therapies reach patients safely and effectively . This role sits at the intersection of: Scientific leadership Client partnership Program development You won't just write reports-you'll own studies, guide strategy, and influence decision-making across entire development programs . If you're someone who wants to move beyond execution into true scientific leadership , this is your opportunity. What You'll Actually Be Doing This is a Study Director + Program Leader hybrid role . You will: Own and Lead Toxicology Programs Serve as Study Director across GLP and non-GLP toxicology studies Design studies, interpret data, and guide IND-enabling strategies Oversee full lifecycle: protocol execution reporting client delivery Be the Scientific Voice for Clients Act as a trusted advisor to sponsors (biotech, pharma, government) Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights Guide clients through study design, risk, and regulatory considerations Drive Scientific Breadth (Not Just Depth) Work across multiple species (rodent NHP preferred) Contribute to studies involving: General toxicology Safety pharmacology PK/toxicology (especially NHP) Emerging therapeutic areas (CNS, obesity, dermatology, vaccines, oncology) Expand and Build Capabilities Help shape and grow the toxicology program Contribute to: New model development Assay validation Capability expansion Partner Across the Business Collaborate with: Business Development (winning work) Project Management (execution) Scientific teams (delivery) Contribute to proposals and scopes of work Step Into Leadership Mentor junior scientists and study team members Begin transitioning toward program leadership and team oversight Play a key role in scaling scientific operations What Success Looks Like You're not just "doing studies"-you're: Leading complex, multi-study programs Becoming a go-to scientific leader internally and externally Helping clients move therapies forward with confidence Growing into a manager of people and programs Who This Role Is Built For Technically Strong, But Ready for More You likely have: 5-7+ years in toxicology (CRO experience strongly preferred) Experience as a Study Director (or ready to step fully into it) Strong foundation in GLP toxicology Scientifically Broad Exposure to multiple species (NHP experience is a major plus) Experience across: General tox Safety pharmacology PK/tox Comfortable with complex dosing routes (e.g., intrathecal, intracranial) Client-Facing Mindset This is critical. You: Communicate clearly and confidently with clients Think in terms of service, not ego Can guide without dominating Future Leader (Even If You're Not One Yet) You may not have large team management experience yet-but: You want to grow into it You're ready to take ownership of larger programs You think beyond your individual contribution Preferred (But Not Required) DABT (or actively pursuing) NHP experience (especially PK/tox) IND-enabling study experience Experience across diverse therapeutic areas Why This Role Is Different Most "Senior Scientist" roles: Focus on execution Limit client interaction Keep you in a narrow lane This role: Gives you ownership Builds your scientific voice Positions you for leadership Career Trajectory This role is intentionally designed as a launchpad into leadership : Program leadership Team management Expanded scientific influence You're not being hired to stay in place-you're being hired to grow into something bigger . About the Organization We have been translating science into real-world solutions since 1941, supporting drug development from discovery through preclinical and beyond. You'll be joining a team focused on: Advancing life-saving therapies Delivering high-quality science Building long-term client partnerships Compensation & Benefits Competitive compensation aligned with experience level Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO, etc.) Support for continued professional development (including DABT) This is an onsite/ close proximity role. Take a look at what the area has to offer: Relocation Guide