Associate Scientist, Analytical Development

Forma Life Sciences; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Forma Life Sciences in Irvine, CA seeks an Associate Scientist, Analytical Development to support formulation development and drug product manufacturing. The role ensures cGMP compliance and executes experiments under senior staff guidance.

You will perform analyses, develop and validate analytical methods, and assist in data documentation using Empower and Excel, while maintaining lab safety and equipment readiness in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Chemistry or related field with 1+ years in analytical labs.
• Experience with analytical instruments such as HPLC, KF, Dissolution Apparatus, UV/Vis.
• Proficient computer skills and ability to work in lab and office settings.

Responsibilities

• Perform analyses of formulation samples and finished product.
• Collaborate with management and other departments on development activities.
• Develop and validate analytical methods with guidance.
• Optimize methods for intended use with direction.
• Document data using Empower, Excel, and related tools.
• Maintain lab safety and cleanliness; follow SOPs.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Technical writing

Education

BS in Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC

KF

Dissolution Apparatus

UV/Vis

Empower

Excel

Job description

What We Do

Forma is a next-generation Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) based in Irvine, California. The company was recently formed through the acquisition of the Irvine operations from BioDuro and is operating as a newly established, independent entity. As a result, Forma’s standalone online presence is still being built.

We are a lean, entrepreneurial organization of approximately 60 employees focused on drug product development and manufacturing for pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients.

Why Forma?

Unlike large, highly layered organizations, Forma operates with a hands-on, execution-driven model. Our teams work closely across functions to solve complex technical and operational challenges, move quickly, and deliver consistently high-quality results.

Employees at Forma are expected to take on meaningful responsibility, collaborate directly with colleagues and clients, and contribute to building scalable systems and processes as the company grows. This is an environment well suited to individuals who value autonomy, technical excellence, and the opportunity to help shape a growing organization.

Job Overview/Summary

The Associate Scientist, Analytical Development performs analytical development activities and tasks to support formulation development and drug product manufacturing. The Associate Scientist communicates as needed with relevant stakeholders. The Associate Scientist facilitates and assists in execution of systems to assure cGMP compliance for all relevant operations carried out within and for Forma. Responsible for performing experiments and general laboratory duties.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Understands and conducts analyses of formulation samples and finished pharmaceutical product with an understanding of laboratory procedures.
• Acts with technical guidance and direction from management or senior scientists. Collaborates with other departments and clients and to support formulation development and manufacturing activities with pre-set timelines.
• Develops and validates analytical methods with some technical direction and guidance.
• Optimizes existing analytical methods to suit their intended purpose with some technical direction and guidance.
• Performs documentation and data analysis using Empower, Excel spreadsheets, and other necessary tools.
• Writes/revises Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and methods when necessary.
• Assists other Scientists with assigned projects.
• Complies with all laboratory safety guidelines including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintains general cleanliness of the lab, including personal bench space and common use areas.
• All other tasks and duties assigned as perceived and agreed upon by senior management.
• This job description is subject to change at any time.

Required Qualifications

• BS degree in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with 1+ years’ experience in analytical laboratory positions.
• Experience utilizing analytical instruments such as HPLC, KF, Dissolution Apparatus, UV/Vis, etc.
• Full computer literacy and knowledge of basic scientific principles and practices.
• Able to work in a well-lit heated and/or air-conditioned indoor office and occasional laboratory setting with adequate ventilation. Light physical activity performing non-strenuous daily activities of a productive/technical nature. May require long periods of standing/sitting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Improvement of any aspect of laboratory processes.
• Detailed attention to data trending.
• Exceptional information technology skills.
• Good data interpretation skills.
• Good technical writing skills.
• Good problem-solving development skills.
• Good attitude, work ethic, and natural leadership.
• Achievement of an advanced degree.

Position Benefits

We offer full health benefits- medical, dental, vision, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, 401(k), employer paid life insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, an aggressive bonus structure, and market-competitive salaries to all our employees. In addition, Forma provides employees with a variety of engaging employee and community outreach events.

EOE and Accommodation

We value diversity and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, pregnancy, citizenship, marital status, gender expression, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Forma provides reasonable accommodation in job application procedures for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. If you need accommodation in connection with the recruiting process due to a disability, you may use the alternative methods by emailing [e-mail]. If you are selected to interview for a position, you may also request an accommodation with our team directly.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives

Forma is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Forma employee by a third-party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Forma. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral.