Scientist, Research Scientist, Drug Discovery

The Science Team at Russell Tobin is supporting a client in the pharmaceutical industry and has an exciting opportunity in South San Francisco, CA for a Scientist.

We are seeking a collaborative, curious, and motivated contractor to support parenteral formulation development and drug delivery research. In this role, you will contribute to research and development activities supporting pipeline programs from early formulation through pre‑clinical evaluation.

Contract Length: 12 months with the possibility of extension
Pay range: $38–$48/hour on W2, based on experience

• Independently prepare drug product formulations with varying compositions to support pre‑clinical studies and pharmaceutics work packages
• Investigate and establish drug product processes for simple and complex dosage forms, including nanoparticle‑based formulations
• Analyze formulations using a range of analytical techniques to assess physicochemical properties, composition, and structure
• Accurately and contemporaneously document experimental work in electronic lab notebooks and scientific presentations
• Review, process, and interpret experimental data to identify trends, key insights, and propose hypothesis‑driven follow‑up studies
• Collaborate with internal and external teams to execute responsibilities and communicate results effectively

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum)
• PhD preferred

• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Chemical Engineering

• Minimum of 2 years of full‑time, hands‑on laboratory or manufacturing experience in academia or industry
• Ability to independently prepare formulations, including accurate weighing, measuring, pipetting, and use of standard laboratory equipment
• Hands‑on experience with analytical techniques commonly used in pharmaceutics, including spectroscopy, chromatography, rheology, light scattering, and physicochemical property measurements
• Ability to independently design experiments and interpret complex datasets
• Strong organizational, documentation, and planning skills
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication
• Proven ability to collaborate in a team‑based environment
• Strong enthusiasm for problem‑solving and innovation in formulation development

Must be authorized to work in the United States.

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans)
• Supplemental coverage (accident insurance, critical illness insurance and hospital indemnity)
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Life & disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Identity theft protection
• Legal support
• Auto and home insurance
• Pet insurance
• Employee discounts with some preferred vendors

We are an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, or other characteristics.

Russell Tobin is a leading minority‑owned professional and technical recruitment and staffing advisory organization. We are the staffing arm of the Pride Global network, a minority‑owned integrated human capital solutions firm, with additional offerings in vendor management, payroll programs, and business process optimization. We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer.