Principal Research Scientist I, Depression Discovery
About this role
Job Title
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated scientist to join our Pharmacology and Cell Biology group within Discovery Psychiatry.
Job Description
The incumbent will be expected to oversee ongoing work in the group related to depression cell-based models, plan for future capabilities expansion, and may lead current or future drug discovery efforts. The ideal candidate will have experience with supervising scientific work, delivering high quality results and developing scientists. The position requires strong drug discovery experience and proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams to progress projects through preclinical development. This is an excellent opportunity to work at the forefront of psychiatric research as part of a dynamic and growing team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop strategy and oversee implementation of internal models being used for depression drug development, especially in vitro iPSC-based models
- Identify and solve technical problems independently, implement new assays and workflows, conceive and implement innovative research ideas
- Supervise junior scientists, providing scientific and technical leadership in the design and execution of experiments, and be accountable for the effective development and performance of the team
- Serve as biology lead for current or future drug discovery projects, responsible for coordinating cross-functional activities and representing team at governance forums from Hit Generation through Candidate Nomination
- Provide input on the identification and selection of new targets, especially those related to depression
- Collaborate with colleagues at various AbbVie and external sites
- Present original work internally across departments and at internal and external scientific conferences; may author or co-author peer-reviewed scientific papers or patents
- Ensure consistency and quality of technical reports
Qualifications:
- MS or PhD in Neuroscience, Biological Sciences, Pharmacology, or related discipline with typically 14+ (BS), 12+ (MS), or 6+ (PhD) years of experience in industry and/or academia
- Strong background in psychiatry research and drug development, especially depression
- Proven track record in progressing projects through preclinical discovery and into early development
- Experience in working in multidisciplinary teams to accomplish strategic goals
- Experience managing direct reports, including providing performance evaluations and development opportunities
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic, cross-functional matrix environment
- Candidate must be a goal-oriented team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong “can-do” attitude
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in psychedelics research and drug discovery
- Experience in overseeing and pioneering the use of novel in vitro iPSC-based models for psychiatry research
Additional Information
- The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.
- We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
- This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs.
AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.
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Pay Range: $124500 – 236500 USD
Where We Work
Role is exclusively performed at a site or office and onsite presence is required. Employees who are site/office-based and can occasionally perform their role virtually work both in the office and remotely*, following the policies and regulations in place at their location. US Employees must be in the office on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday with flexibility to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays. Three days in the office is the minimum; some individuals or teams may require more in-office days due to meetings, business/project needs or their role.
Details
Organization
AbbVie
Location
United States (US)
Position type
Research
Posted
August 25, 2026
Source
jobRxiv
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