Scientist, Research Scientist, Pharmaceutical Science​/ Research

Job Description:

Contractor – Synthetic Molecule Pharmaceutics Department Overview

The Synthetic Molecule Pharmaceutics team, part of Genentech Research and Early Development (gRED), supports the transition of next‑generation therapeutics from pre‑clinical research into clinical development. Our work focuses on synthetic molecules and innovative modalities—including nucleic acids, peptides, and conjugates—administered via parenteral routes such as IV, SC, IT, and intravitreal. We develop formulations, drug delivery strategies, and manufacturing processes that enable the successful advancement of novel therapeutics across multiple therapeutic areas.

We are seeking a highly motivated, collaborative, and curious contractor to join the Synthetic Molecule Pharmaceutics group. In this role, you will support parenteral formulation development and drug delivery efforts across a diverse pipeline of programs. You will work hands‑on in the laboratory preparing formulations, conducting analytical characterization, and driving experimental design to support early development milestones.

This position requires full on‑site presence.

• Independently prepare drug product formulations of varying compositions to support pre‑clinical studies and pharmaceutics work packages.
• Develop and refine drug product processes for both simple and complex dosage forms, including nanoparticle‑based formulations.
• Conduct analytical testing using a variety of physicochemical and structural characterization techniques.
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous documentation of all experimental work in electronic lab notebooks and through presentations.
• Analyze data, identify trends, and propose hypothesis‑driven follow‑up experiments.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to drive program objectives and present key findings.

• Bachelor's degree (minimum)
• PhD preferred

• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Chemical Engineering

• Minimum of 2 years of full‑time, hands‑on experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment (academia or industry).
• Ability to independently prepare formulations, including weighing solids/liquids, pipetting, and operating common laboratory equipment.
• Practical understanding and experience with key analytical techniques such as:
• Spectroscopy
• Rheology
• Chromatography
• Light scattering
• Physicochemical property measurements
• Demonstrated ability to independently design experiments and interpret data.
• Strong organizational, planning, and documentation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Enthusiasm for innovation and problem‑solving in formulation development.

• Foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences, especially solutions and colloids.
• Experience with nanoparticle preparation techniques.
• Familiarity with sterile handling practices.
• Alignment with our cultural values:
  Integrity, Courage, and Passion.

This is a Contract position based out of South San Francisco, CA.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $48.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&DD for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type:
This is a fully onsite position in South San Francisco, CA. Final date to receive applications:
This position is anticipated to close on Feb 20, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.