R&D Associate Scientist

Abinitio Pharma; Sydney; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ab Initio Pharma, a Sydney-based CDMO/CRO, is seeking an early-career scientist to join our growing laboratory team. You will support research and development activities by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to new formulations and technologies.

The role requires a Chemistry/Pharmaceutical Sciences degree and 1–3 years of R&D experience, with strong data analysis skills and attention to detail. Collaboration and independent work are essential in our team-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in a research and development setting, preferably within pharmaceutical/biotech.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory techniques, experimental design, and analytical methods.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research experiments and studies to support R&D initiatives, including experimental design and execution.
• Assist in the development and optimisation of formulations, processes, and analytical methods.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret experimental data to draw meaningful conclusions.
• Create and maintain accurate laboratory records, notebooks, research protocols, and reports.
• Assist in the development and revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation.
• Support the technology transfer of research findings into scalable production processes.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Participate in cross-functional project teams to support product development efforts.
• Stay updated with emerging scientific and technological trends in the industry.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports, findings, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Assist in the validation and qualification of equipment, facilities, and processes.
• Perform other duties as directed.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Experimental design

Analytical methods

Data analysis

Statistical methods

Scientific software

HPLC

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field

Tools

HPLC

Job description

About Us We are Ab Initio Pharma, a dynamic, Sydney-based Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO) and Contract Research Organisation (CRO). We specialize in advancing pharmaceutical innovation from early-stage research through to clinical manufacturing. We are currently looking for a motivated early-career scientist to join our growing laboratory team.

About the Role Reporting directly to the R&D Manager, this is an excellent opportunity for a professional looking to build upon their foundational laboratory experience. You will play a key role in supporting research and development activities within the organization by conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to the development of new products, formulations, and technologies. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research experiments and studies to support R&D initiatives, including experimental design and execution.

Assist in the development and optimisation of formulations, processes, and analytical methods.

Collect, analyse, and interpret experimental data to draw meaningful conclusions.

Create and maintain accurate laboratory records, notebooks, research protocols, and reports.

Assist in the development and revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation.

Support the technology transfer of research findings into scalable production processes.

Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety protocols, and quality standards.

Participate in cross-functional project teams to support product development efforts.

Stay updated with emerging scientific and technological trends in the industry.

Assist in the preparation of technical reports, findings, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

Assist in the validation and qualification of equipment, facilities, and processes.

Perform other duties as directed.

About You

A degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field.

1–3 years of experience in a research and development setting, preferably within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or related industry.

Strong knowledge of laboratory techniques, experimental design, and analytical methods.

Experience with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is preferred, but not essential.

Proficiency in data analysis, statistical methods, and scientific software.

Experience in formulation development, process optimization, or analytical method development.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.