Principal Scientist, Materials Science

Overview

The Materials & Biophysical Characterization (MBC) group within Analytical Research & Development is seeking a highly motivated and technically focused individual to positively impact our Company's pipeline from discovery through development and commercial launch. This position is for a Pharmaceutical Materials Scientist who will be a key member of a team responsible for the physicochemical characterization of pharmaceutical materials including small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), chemical intermediates, peptides, novel excipients, drug‑product intermediates, and drug products.

• Select and develop experimental approaches for crystallization, polymorph and salt selection, drug‑excipient compatibility, characterization of amorphous solid dispersions, and physical stability of APIs and drug products.
• Apply expertise in physical organic chemistry or materials science within cross‑functional teams to solve scientific challenges.
• Build a strong internal and external network with academic and regulatory communities.
• Advance scientific excellence, foster a compliance mindset, and collaborate with partners across Discovery Chemistry, Process & Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Formulations Sciences.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline, with a minimum of 12 years relevant industrial experience (non‑academic).
• Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline with a minimum of 8 years relevant industrial experience (non‑academic).

• Expertise in materials science or physical chemistry with materials characterization techniques such as X‑ray diffraction, thermal analysis, electron microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, particle size analysis, or powder property characterization.
• Demonstrated experience leading cross‑functional teams.
• Commitment to mentoring scientists.
• Strong academic record, including publications in peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at scientific meetings.
• Self‑motivated, creative, and energetic scientist willing to continually learn and solve complex problems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Expertise with at least one of the following: API polymorph screening and crystallization; chemo metric analysis of spectroscopic data; amorphous solid dispersion characterization; modified‑release dosage form development and characterization; rheological characterization of complex fluids or suspensions; late‑stage product development and regulatory documentation / filing.

US and Puerto Rico residents only.

San Francisco Residents Only: qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records considered in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Los Angeles Residents Only: qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, considered in compliance with the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

Salary range: $ – $. Additional compensation may include annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

More information about benefits available at

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Our company embraces the value of bringing together talented, committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively.

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