University of Bath

Location
Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom

General Description
A full-time postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position is available for a fixed term of 12 months (36.5 hours per week), with an expected start date of 1 March 2026. The role contributes to the project “Development and Validation of a Multi-functional, Multi-purpose Quantitative Tool for Dermal Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling.”

This research addresses the complex transformation (metamorphosis) of topical drug products after application to the skin, where volatile components evaporate and drug absorption dynamics change significantly. The project, funded by the US FDA, aims to enhance an existing physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to better predict drug absorption, performance, and bioequivalence of topical medicines.

The role forms part of a multi-institutional collaboration involving the University of Reading, Colorado School of Mines, Simulations Plus, and the FDA. The University of Bath’s contribution focuses on generating experimental data to support PBPK model development through formulation design and characterization of metamorphosis kinetics.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and formulating drug-vehicle combinations to investigate metamorphosis processes
• Characterizing formulations through stability, solubility, and physicochemical testing (pH, viscosity, microscopy)
• Conducting in vitro permeation testing (IVPT) to study drug and excipient absorption and disposition in skin
• Linking permeation data with formulation properties and metamorphosis events
• Developing and validating HPLC methods and alternative analytical techniques
• Performing data analysis, interpretation, and collaboration with research partners
• Participating in stakeholder meetings and presenting findings
• Contributing to scientific publications and conference outputs
• Ensuring adherence to health, safety, and research integrity standards

The role involves fast-paced experimental research requiring extensive laboratory work, independent initiative, and collaboration with international partners. The successful candidate will also contribute to technical reporting and communication with funders and collaborators.

The University offers a supportive and inclusive environment, with strong commitments to diversity, equality (including Athena SWAN Silver Award), disability inclusion, and safe recruitment practices. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, generous leave, pension schemes, relocation support, visa assistance, and a wide range of staff benefits.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD (or equivalent) in pharmaceutical sciences, pharmaceutics, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated experience in independent research and scientific reporting
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary and international teams
• Right to work in the UK (unless otherwise specified by the employer)

Required expertise/skills

• Strong background in skin formulation and percutaneous permeation
• Hands-on experience with in vitro permeation testing (IVPT)
• Expertise in solubility and stability studies of pharmaceutical formulations
• Proficiency in HPLC method development and quantitative analysis
• Knowledge of drug delivery across biological barriers
• Ability to design experiments, analyze complex datasets, and interpret results
• Experience presenting research findings and contributing to scientific publications
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Salary details
£38,784 to £46,049 per annum

Application Deadline
29 April 2026

Application Link

More opportunities link here!