Scientist , Analytical Development

Catalent’s San Diego, CA site is an early‑phase development facility supporting small‑molecule and peptide programs from preformulation through cGMP clinical manufacturing for oral and injectable dosage forms. The 68,000‑square‑foot site is a center of excellence for spray‑drying and bioavailability‑enhancement technologies, with integrated capabilities to advance challenging compounds rapidly into the clinic.

Catalent’s San Diego, CA site is an early‑phase development facility supporting small‑molecule and peptide programs from preformulation through cGMP clinical manufacturing for oral and injectable dosage forms. The 68,000‑square‑foot site is a center of excellence for spray‑drying and bioavailability‑enhancement technologies, with integrated capabilities to advance challenging compounds rapidly into the clinic.

We have an opportunity for a Scientist 1, Analytical Development to join our team. In this role, you will perform laboratory experiments with a high degree of autonomy and communicate project progress to cross‑functional teams, management, and clients. You will apply creativity and innovation to problem‑solving while developing and qualifying analytical test methods for APIs, intermediates, and final drug products. This position offers the chance to contribute directly to ensuring patients receive the highest quality medicines through analytical excellence.

Shift: Monday-Friday 8 AM-4:30 PM

Location:

San Diego, CA

100% Onsite

• Perform and train others on analytical techniques including analytical balances, pH meters, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UPLC), UV/Vis spectroscopy, gas chromatography (GC), USP dissolution testing apparatus, moisture analysis by Karl Fischer, disintegration, Pion µdiss, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), particle size distribution (PSD), powder X‑ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hardness, and friability testing.
• Develop cleaning verification methods.
• Execute excipient compatibility and forced degradation studies under supervision.
• Troubleshoot and optimize analytical methods for characterization of drug products and intermediates.
• Perform qualification studies to determine if methods are suitable for transfer to Quality Control.
• Independently design and execute simple experiments; seek supervisor input for complex designs.
• Interpret data with limited guidance and identify key factors and findings.
• Maintain clear and accurate laboratory records and review colleagues’ work for accuracy and compliance.
• Engage with clients on technical topics related to their projects.
• Apply strong scientific principles, chemistry knowledge, and proficiency in analytical techniques, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), and technical writing.
• Propose solutions to scientific problems and maintain good housekeeping and safety practices.
• May supervise laboratory assistants.

• Four‑year degree in a physical, chemical, biological, or pharmaceutical science required.
• Bachelor’s degree with 1 or more years of experience in analytical development.
• Master’s degree with experience in analytical development preferred.

• Proficiency in analytical techniques including analytical balances, pH meters, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UPLC), gas chromatography (GC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X‑ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gas volume spectroscopy (GVS), UV/Vis spectroscopy, USP dissolution testing apparatus, disintegration, hardness, friability, and moisture analysis by Karl Fischer.
• Highly detail‑oriented and organized, with the ability…