Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry
About The Position
The Chemical Process and Analytical Development (CPAD) group in Bothell, WA develops innovative and phase‑appropriate synthetic routes and scalable chemical processes, for novel small molecule targeted therapeutics. Our process chemists, analytical scientists, and chemical engineers collaborate to design robust, safe, and scalable chemistry that accelerates delivery of life‑changing therapeutics to patients. As a Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry, you will serve as a key technical leader driving route scouting, synthetic design, process development, and process characterization for our expanding portfolio. You will apply a strong foundation in modern synthetic organic chemistry and process development to build scalable, innovative chemistry using state‑of‑the-art technologies (HTE, data‑rich experimentation, continuous processing, catalysis, and predictive tools). This role provides the opportunity to contribute through hands‑on laboratory innovation while guiding strategy for early and late-stage programs. You will mentor junior scientists, influence cross‑functional project direction, and represent process chemistry both internally and externally. You will also oversee execution of GMP production batches through technology transfer and campaign oversight.
Requirements
- PhD in Organic Chemistry with 4+ years of industry experience in pharmaceutical process development, including route design, scale‑up, and GMP manufacturing; or a Master’s degree with 10+ years of relevant experience.
- Deep foundational understanding of synthetic organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, process development, and modern purification and analytical technologies.
- Demonstrated scientific impact via peer‑reviewed publications, patents, or conference presentations.
- Strong communication skills with ability to collaborate across scientific and engineering disciplines.
- Experience supporting development from preclinical through commercial stages.
- Experience in regulated pharmaceutical environments including GMP operations and authoring regulatory submissions.
- This is an on‑site role (5 days/week).
- Submission of a research summary is required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience developing drug‑linkers for ADCs, PROTACS, DACs or other targeted mixed‑modality therapeutics.
- Experience mentoring and developing scientific staff.
- Experience with technology transfer and oversight of external development work.
- Experience at innovator pharmaceutical companies strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and interpret complex laboratory experiments aimed at route development, process optimization, and scale‑up.
- Develop fit-for-purpose processes for early- and late-stage programs, ensuring safety, robustness, and scalability.
- Maintain rigorous laboratory records, author patents, and contribute to regulatory documents.
- Apply modern synthetic organic chemistry principles, high-throughput experimentation, mechanistic insight, and data-rich methods to accelerate development.
- Effectively communicate scientific strategy, risks, and solutions to project teams, leadership, and partner functions.
- Drive alignment to project timelines and portfolio strategy.
- Mentor junior staff and foster an inclusive, scientifically rigorous, and collaborative environment.
- Lead technology transfer and partner interactions to enable external development campaigns.
- Build strong stakeholder relationships across CPAD, partner functions, and project teams.
- Establish an external technical presence through publications and presentations.
Benefits
- In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 15.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program.
- We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life’s moments.
- Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage.
- Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site – U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com).
- Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
