About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered therapies for HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in Foster City, California, the company drives scientific innovation to address global health challenges. With a relentless focus on collaboration and impact, Gilead's teams develop life-changing medicines ensuring broad access worldwide. Join a mission-driven organization where every role contributes to bold ambitions in oncology, HIV treatment, and beyond.

Role Overview

As a Post Doc Scientist in Gilead's Analytical Development organization in Foster City, California, you'll spearhead next-generation spectromicroscopy strategies. This postdoctoral fellowship focuses on Raman, FTIR, OPTIR, and MALDI MS to analyze long-acting injectable (LAI) drug depots. Integrate advanced spectroscopy, multimodal imaging, chemometrics, and machine learning to unravel in-tissue chemical and solid-state behaviors. Ideal for PhD graduates passionate about pharmaceutical sciences, this role offers hands-on innovation in drug release mechanisms, depot stability, and injection-site responses.

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Spectroscopy Development

Develop and optimize Raman, FTIR, OPTIR, and MALDI MS methods to characterize depot chemistry and solid-state forms in synthetic media and ex-vivo tissues. Conduct stress studies on pH, oxidative, and moisture-driven transformations for model LAI systems.

Machine Learning Integration

Build chemometric and machine learning models using CLS, PLS, PCA, and image-based segmentation to map drug distribution, degradation, and polymorphic changes. Leverage Python or MATLAB for spectroscopic data processing and deep learning applications.

Tissue Characterization

Analyze drug depots in porcine dermis, fat, and muscle, correlating findings with histopathology and injection-site reaction (ISR) outcomes. Create unified chemical imaging workflows from multimodal datasets to advance formulation development.

Collaboration and Communication

Partner with Formulation, DMPK, DPP, and Toxicology teams on cross-functional LAI projects. Present findings in internal forums and contribute to high-impact publications and conferences.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Qualifications

Hold a PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, Optics Science, Biomedical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering. Demonstrate hands-on Raman/FTIR experience, Python/MATLAB proficiency for multivariate analysis, strong scientific curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a publication record.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with OPTIR, SEM/EDS, XRPD, MALDI-IMS, HPLC, LC-MS, or tissue imaging. Familiarity with chemometric tools like PLS Toolbox, solid-state characterization, LAI formulations, and multidisciplinary teamwork. Excellent communication in matrixed environments.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead offers a competitive salary range of $126,820 - $164,120, based on experience and location. Enjoy paid time off, comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. While not eligible for bonuses or stock incentives, this role provides robust benefits supporting work-life balance and wellbeing. Explore full details at Gilead's compensation page.

Career Growth

This postdoctoral position launches your career in biopharma innovation. Gain expertise in cutting-edge analytical tools and ML, positioning you for senior scientist or leadership roles. Gilead invests in employee development, fostering an inclusive culture where leaders empower teams. Transition to permanent roles in analytical development, formulation, or R&D, contributing to HIV, oncology, and inflammatory disease breakthroughs.

Why Join Gilead

Gilead stands at the forefront of biopharmaceuticals, tackling HIV, cancer, viral hepatitis, and inflammatory diseases with groundbreaking therapies. In Foster City, collaborate with top talent in a supportive, diverse environment. Make direct impact on global health while enjoying premium compensation, benefits, and growth opportunities. Be part of a team relentless in pursuit of possible.

Role FAQs

What is the duration of the postdoctoral fellowship?

This is a fixed-term postdoctoral role, typically 2-3 years, designed for recent PhD graduates to conduct independent research.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Gilead evaluates relocation on a case-by-case basis for strong candidates.

What makes this role unique?

Combine spectroscopy, imaging, and AI to solve real-world LAI challenges, with opportunities for publications and cross-team impact.

How does Gilead support diversity?

Gilead is committed to equal opportunity, fostering an inclusive workplace with diverse perspectives driving innovation.

Can I apply if my PhD is from a related field?

Yes, provided you meet required hands-on spectroscopy and programming experience.