Research Scientist

Job Title : Research Scientist / Senior Research Scientist – Process R&D Department : R&D – Process Development

Industry : CDMO / API

Purpose of the Role :

To lead and execute the development, optimization, and scale-up of robust, cost-effective, and regulatory-compliant chemical processes for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and intermediates, ensuring smooth technology transfer from lab to kilo lab and manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Responsibilities

Drive innovation by designing synthetic routes that align with project timelines and regulatory requirements.

Contribute to technology differentiation strategies that enhance the CDMO’s scientific credibility and client value proposition.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Analytical, QA / QC, and Regulatory) to support integrated drug development solutions.

2. Operational Responsibilities

Perform route scouting and literature searches, and develop robust and scalable chemical processes using QbD principles.

Conduct laboratory experiments for reaction optimization, impurity profiling, and process safety assessment.

Prepare and review technical reports, SOPs, and technology transfer documents.

Ensure compliance with GMP / GLP and EHS standards during lab-scale and pilot-scale operations.

Participate in troubleshooting during scale-up or commercial production batches and provide technical support during client audits.

3. Financial Responsibilities

Optimize process economics by reducing cycle time, yield improvement, and minimizing raw material costs.

Support cost estimation activities during project proposals or client RFQs by providing technical insights.

4. People & Collaboration Responsibilities

Guide junior team members on experimental planning, data interpretation, and documentation best practices.

Promote a culture of safety, learning, and innovation within the team.

Work closely with program management and business development to align project goals with customer expectations.

Qualifications & Experience

M.Sc. (Organic Chemistry) / PhD

3–7 years of experience in Process R&D, preferably in CDMO organizations

Hands-on expertise in synthesis, scale-up, impurity profiling, and technology transfer

Familiarity with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR) and regulatory documentation