Scientist, Analytical Development; TEMP

What We Do

Forma is a next-generation Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) based in Irvine, California. The company was recently formed through the acquisition of the Irvine operations from Bio Duro and is operating as a newly established, independent entity. As a result, Forma’s standalone online presence is still being built.

We are a lean, entrepreneurial organization of approximately 60 employees focused on drug product development and manufacturing for pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients.

Unlike large, highly layered organizations, Forma operates with a hands‑on, execution‑driven model. Our teams work closely across functions to solve complex technical and operational challenges, move quickly, and deliver consistently high‑quality results.

Employees at Forma are expected to take on meaningful responsibility, collaborate directly with colleagues and clients, and contribute to building scalable systems and processes as the company grows. This is an environment well suited to individuals who value autonomy, technical excellence, and the opportunity to help shape a growing organization.

The Scientist, Analytical Development independently performs analytical development activities and tasks to support formulation development and drug product manufacturing. The Scientist communicates as needed with relevant stakeholders, including those within and outside of Forma. The Scientist facilitates and assists in execution of systems to assure cGMP compliance for all relevant operations carried out within and for Forma. Responsible for performing advanced experiments and general laboratory duties.

This job is temp to hire.

• Understands and independently conducts complex analyses of formulation samples and finished pharmaceutical product with a thorough understanding of laboratory procedures.

• Acts as analytical lead with some technical guidance and direction from management or senior scientists in drug product program as analytical development chemist to collaborate with other departments and clients and support formulation development and manufacturing activities with pre-set timelines.

• Develops and validates analytical methods with some technical direction and guidance

• Optimizes existing analytical methods to suit their intended purpose with some technical direction and guidance.

• Works with advanced methods and performs advanced experiments accurately with minimal technical guidance, consistently, and in a timely manner.

• Performs documentation and data analysis using Empower, Excel spreadsheets, and other necessary tools.

• Writes/revises Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and methods when necessary.

• Assists other Scientists with assigned projects.

• Complies with all laboratory safety guidelines including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Maintains general cleanliness of the lab, including personal bench space and common use areas.

• All other tasks and duties assigned as perceived and agreed upon by senior management.

• This job description is subject to change at any time.

• BS degree in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with 3+ years’ experience

• MS in Chemistry or related scientific discipline, with 1+ years’ experience

• PhD in Chemistry or related scientific discipline

• 3+ years of experience in analytical laboratory positions in the pharmaceutical industry.

• Experience utilizing analytical instruments such as HPLC, KF, Dissolution Apparatus, UV/Vis, etc.

• Full computer literacy and knowledge of basic scientific principles and practices.

• cGMP and regulatory knowledge on method validations

• Able to work in a well‑lit heated and/or air‑conditioned indoor office and occasional laboratory setting with adequate ventilation. Light physical activity performing non‑strenuous daily activities of a productive/technical nature. May require long periods of standing/sitting

• Improvement of any aspect of laboratory processes

• Detailed attention to data trending

• Exceptional information technology skills

• Good data interpretation skills

• Good technical writing skills

• Good problem‑solving development…