Sr. Principal R&D Scientist

Sr. Principal R&D Scientist

We are seeking a Transformation Lead Scientist to lead end-to-end laboratory and process transformation across Product Integrity, Analytical Sciences, R&D, and Manufacturing Quality laboratories within a highly regulated consumer products environment. This role supports laboratories focused on tobacco, nicotine, aerosol, and next-generation product testing, ensuring analytical and quality operations are efficient, compliant, and scalable. The successful candidate will assess current capabilities across multiple sites while working alongside business-as-usual (BAU) lab operations, driving measurable improvements in throughput, data quality, and regulatory readiness.

• Lead process transformation across Analytical Sciences production labs, Foundational Chemistry labs, R&D environments, and Manufacturing Quality Services labs
• Map current-state capabilities while operating in parallel with business-as-usual (BAU) activities
• Identify gaps, redundancies, and inefficiencies across laboratory operations and service delivery models Multi-Site Workflow & Capability Assessment
• Evaluate workflows across multiple sites, teams, and laboratory functions
• Develop and implement skills matrices to assess workforce capabilities and identify proficiency gaps
• Align resources, roles, and processes to optimize efficiency and scalability across the network

Define and analyze key performance metrics, including samples processed per role, non-conformance/error rates, and time per sample. Leverage data-driven insights to drive process optimization and continuous improvement. Implement scalable solutions that enhance throughput, data quality, compliance, and overall operational performance.

Design and implement systems and tools to capture, track, and report key laboratory performance metrics. Establish standardized methods for data collection, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and traceability. Enable real-time or near-real-time visibility into operational performance to support decision-making and continuous improvement.

Strong scientific and technical foundation in analytical sciences, chemistry, microbiology, or related disciplines, with the ability to understand and troubleshoot complex laboratory workflows. Proven experience in process transformation and operational excellence, including assessing workflows and implementing scalable improvements. Strong data analytics capability with experience defining, tracking, and interpreting key performance metrics (e.g., throughput, error rates, cycle time). Experience developing or leveraging systems and tools (e.g., LIMS, ELN, dashboards) to capture, manage, and visualize operational data.

Effective leadership and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate insights clearly. Solid understanding of regulated laboratory environments (e.g., FDA, ISO, GLP/GMP) with a strong focus on quality, compliance, and documentation accuracy.

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Analytical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline. Minimum of 5–10 years of hands-on laboratory experience in a regulated environment (e.g., consumer products, pharmaceutical, or similar). An Associate's degree in a life science field plus 15+ years of laboratory experience.

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Chemistry, Analytical Sciences, Microbiology, or a related scientific field. Experience in tobacco, nicotine, aerosol, or other regulated consumer product testing environments. Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (e.g., chromatography, spectroscopy, or automated lab systems). Familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as FDA, ISO, GLP/GMP, and data integrity standards Experience with digital lab systems and tools (e.g., LIMS, ELN, data visualization platforms) Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional or multi-site initiatives, including process transformation or lab optimization.

Must be able to work in a laboratory,…