Principal Scientist, Materials Science

Job Description

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 role is a Pharmaceutical Materials Scientist who will lead the physicochemical characterization of pharmaceutical materials, including small-molecule APIs, chemical intermediates, peptides, novel excipients, drug‑product intermediates, and finished products.

Utilize expertise in physical organic chemistry or materials science to tackle scientific challenges related to crystallization, polymorph and salt selection, drug‑excipient compatibility, characterization of amorphous solid dispersions, and physical stability of APIs and drug products. Foster collaboration with cross‑functional teams such as Discovery Chemistry, Process & Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Formulation Sciences.

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

• Expertise in materials science or physical chemistry with experience in 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 communications.

• Expertise with at least one of the following:
• Active pharmaceutical ingredient (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: qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

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

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds and provide accommodations throughout the hiring process.

Salary Range: $ – $. The specific compensation will be contingent on education, experience, skills, geography, and other factors.

The successful candidate will be eligible for an annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days, and additional benefits as described on our website.

Employee Status:
Regular. Relocation:
Domestic. Visa Sponsorship:
Yes. Travel Requirements: 10%.