Principal Scientist - Chemical Research & Development

Job Overview

The Principal Scientist 1 - Chemical Research and Development role is directed toward optimization of existing chemical routes and development of alternate chemistry toward key synthetic intermediates and APIs. Carries out multistep chemical synthesis and product isolation/purification operations in the laboratory, independently or as part of an integrated team. Chemist utilizes modern analytical tools to determine identity and purity of products made during projects.

Communication with clients in regular team meetings; prepares R&D reports at the conclusion of projects.

• Design and carry out multistep organic syntheses, isolation, and purification of targeted products.
• Possess a strong understanding of modern organic synthesis methodologies.
• Have detailed knowledge of modern analytical and spectroscopic techniques and be able to interpret the corresponding data and spectra.
• Conduct literature searches for specific target compounds and use literature to design alternate routes. Continuously update knowledge and discuss findings with colleagues.
• Demonstrate proficiency in laboratory syntheses and purification techniques on scales ranging from milligrams to several kilograms, and design and implement process modifications.
• Excellent time management and ability to manage projects on‑time without supervision.
• Author and review comprehensive reports at the conclusion of projects for internal and customer use.
• Collaborate closely with other chemistry and analytical laboratory staff to coordinate project activities and resource usage.
• Promote teamwork and cooperation within the group.
• Conduct laboratory operations safely, following the company’s chemical hygiene plan, and maintain safety awareness.
• Follow responsible chemical disposal actions and comply with federal, state and local regulations.
• Communicate effectively (interpersonal and presentations). Participate in project team meetings with customers.
• Co‑ordinate with manufacturing and GMP operations to support project‑related equipment and activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe laboratory work area.

Organic Chemistry Knowledge: Beginning to demonstrate an understanding of advanced theories in Organic Chemistry/Process Development.

Cross Discipline Knowledge: Higher level of understanding of the principles of cross‑functional departments, including analytical chemistry and engineering.

GMP/Regulatory Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of the GMP landscape and fundamental understanding of the industrial regulatory landscape; good understanding of site SOPs and regulatory CMC concerns and can answer client questions that can help to develop their clinical package.

Instrumentation: Advanced knowledge of HPLC, GC, MS, automated reactor platforms, in‑situ reaction monitoring, and ability to train and troubleshoot problems with equipment (and help others).

Communication: Good written and oral communication skills, often leading technical calls with clients.

Problem Solving: Strong demonstration of problem solving, ability to lead investigations.

Time Management: Able to maintain timeline of key activities and use time efficiently; ability to handle projects without supervision, though requires regular check‑in with manager.

Leadership: Demonstrated record of mentorship and development of peers, partner lines and ability to support initiatives within the department.

Technical Documentation and Review: Ability to author and review technical documents with minimal RFT errors. Can write new SOP with manager assistance, keep current lab notebook while practicing GDP.

External Influence: Ability to lead local project teams and steer clients to desired outcomes; ability to work with management to develop key local laboratory‑based initiatives.

Industry Credibility and Rapport: Recognized scientific leader within the Cambrex organization, locally and possibly beginning to extend to other sites.

Operational Excellence: Actively participates in key operational excellence initiatives.

Change Orientation: Active participation and support for implementation of Cambrex system level changes/initiative.

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