Principal Scientist - Chemical Research & Development
Listed on 2026-01-12
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Science
Research Scientist
Overview
You Matter to Cambrex.
Your Work Matters.
Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance, drug product, and analytical services across the entire drug lifecycle. With more than 40 years of experience and a growing team of over 2,000 professionals servicing global clients, Cambrex is a trusted partner in branded and generic markets for API and dosage form development and manufacturing.
At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve, learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment, and strengthen connections with coworkers and the community. We’re committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company.
We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!
Your Future Matters.
Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!
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.
- Must possess a strong understanding of modern organic synthesis methodologies.
- Must have a thorough understanding of modern analytical and spectroscopic techniques and be able to interpret the corresponding data and spectra.
- Ability to conduct literature searches for specific target compounds and be able to use the literature to base a design of alternate routes to these compounds. Requires ongoing professional development to keep abreast of current scientific literature and discuss these findings with colleagues.
- Must demonstrate a proficiency to carry out laboratory syntheses and purification techniques on scales ranging from milligrams to several kilograms, and design and implement process modifications.
- Requires excellent time management with the ability to manage projects on-time without supervision.
- Ability to author and review comprehensive reports at the conclusion of projects for internal and customer use.
- Work closely with other chemistry and analytical laboratory staff to coordinate project activities and resource usage.
- Work to ensure that a spirit of teamwork and cooperation always exists within the group.
- Conduct laboratory operations in a safe manner. Maintain familiarity with the company’s chemical hygiene plan. Exhibit safety awareness and safe work practices.
- Follow responsible actions regarding chemical disposal. Maintain compliance with all regulations at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Must demonstrate effective communication skills (both interpersonal and presentations). Participate in project team meetings with customers.
- Work closely with manufacturing and GMP operations to coordinate 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…
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