Job Overview

The Principal Scientist 1 - Chemical Research and Development role is directed toward optimization of existing chemical routes and development of alternate chemistry toward key synthetic intermediates and APIs. Carries out multistep chemical synthesis and product isolation/purification operations in the laboratory, independently or as part of an integrated team. Chemist utilizes modern analytical tools to determine identity and purity of products made during projects. Communication with clients in regular team meetings; prepares R&D reports at the conclusion of projects.

Responsibilities
• Design and carry out multistep organic syntheses, isolation, and purification of targeted products.
• Must possess a strong understanding of modern organic synthesis methodologies.
• Must have a thorough understanding of modern analytical and spectroscopic techniques and be able to interpret the corresponding data and spectra.
• Ability to conduct literature searches for specific target compounds and be able to use the literature to base a design of alternate routes to these compounds. Requires ongoing professional development to keep abreast of current scientific literature and discuss these findings with colleagues.
• Must demonstrate a proficiency to carry out laboratory syntheses and purification techniques on scales ranging from milligrams to several kilograms, and design and implement process modifications.
• Requires excellent time management with the ability to manage projects on-time without supervision.
• Ability to author and review comprehensive reports at the conclusion of projects for internal and customer use.
• Work closely with other chemistry and analytical laboratory staff to coordinate project activities and resource usage.
• Work to ensure that a spirit of teamwork and cooperation always exists within the group.
• Conduct laboratory operations in a safe manner. Maintain familiarity with the company's chemical hygiene plan. Exhibit safety awareness and safe work practices.
• Follow responsible actions regarding chemical disposal. Maintain compliance with all regulations at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Must demonstrate effective communication skills (both interpersonal and presentations). Participate in project team meetings with customers.
• Work closely with manufacturing and GMP operations to coordinate project related equipment and activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe laboratory work area.

Qualifications/Skills

Organic Chemistry Knowledge: Beginning to demonstrate an understanding of advanced theories in Organic Chemistry/Process Development.

Cross Discipline Knowledge: Higher level of understanding of the principles of cross-functional departments, including analytical chemistry and engineering.

GMP/Regulatory Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of the GMP landscape and fundamental understanding of the industrial regulatory landscape; Good understanding of site SOPs and regulatory CMC concerns and can answer client questions that can help to develop their clinical package.

Instrumentation: Advanced knowledge of HPLC, GC, MS, automated reactor platforms, In-situ reaction monitoring, and ability to train and troubleshoot problems with equipment (and help others).

Communication: Good written and oral communication skills, often leading technical calls with clients.

Problem Solving: Strond demonstration of problem solving, ability to lead investigations.

Time Management: Able to maintain timeline of key activities and use time efficiently; ability to handle projects without supervision, though requires regular check-in with manager.

Leadership: Demonstrated record of mentorship and development of peers, partner lines and ability to support initiatives within the department.

Technical Documentation and Review: Ability author and review technical documents with minimal RFT errors. Can write new SOP with manager assistance, keep current lab notebook while practicing GDP.

External Influence:Ability to lead local project teams and steer clients to desired outcomes; ability to work with management to develop key local laboratory-based initiatives.

Industry Credibility and Rapport: Recognized scientific leader within the Cambrex organization, locally and possibly beginning to extend to other sites.

Operational Excellence: Actively participates in key operational excellence initiatives.

Change Orientation: Active participation and support for implementation of Cambrex system level changes/initiative

Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field with minimum 6 years' experience or M.S. in Chemistry or related field with minimum 10 years' experience or B.S. degree in Chemistry or related field with 14 years of experience in lab environment, pharmaceutical experience preferred. Hands on experience in pharmaceutical/chemical process development. Excellent verbal and written communication/interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and the ability to work in a diverse team environment are essential. Proficiency with Microsoft software (SharePoint, Word / EXCEL / PowerPoint), and Chemdraw is expected.
• Some active work, exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or the amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The daily work is performed is primarily in a laboratory setting. Walking and standing are required regularly.
• Position also requires visual acuity, talking and fingering.
• Involves regular use of basic PPE (personal protective equipment) such as supplied air respirator, negative pressure respirator, gloves, safety glasses, shielding clothing.