Forensic Chemist

CFSRE; Horsham (PA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) in Horsham, PA, seeks a Forensic Chemist with 2–5 years in forensic chemistry to lead analytical method development and drug material testing. You will work on GC-MS, LC-MS workflows, data interpretation, and reporting while ensuring strict evidence handling standards.

You will collaborate with universities for adjunct roles and share findings through publications and conferences, contributing to high‑impact research and education within

Qualifications

• Degree in chemistry, forensic science, or related discipline.
• 2–5 years of experience in forensic chemistry.
• Experience with analytical chemistry techniques and data interpretation.
• Familiarity with chain-of-custody and evidence handling.
• Strong writing and presentation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in research projects expanding forensic chemistry.
• Design, validate, and apply analytical methods for drug material testing.
• Quantitate and profile substances such as fentanyl and other narcotics.
• Present findings at scientific meetings and publish in journals.
• Collaborate with universities for adjunct roles and teaching.
• Maintain rigorous laboratory practices and data integrity.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

GC-MS

LC-MS

Qualitative/Quantitative analysis

Mass spectrometry

Forensic protocols

Data analysis

Excel

Communication

Ethical conduct

Hazardous materials handling

Safety procedures

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Forensic Science

Tools

GC-MS

LC-QQQ-MS

LC-QTOF-MS

Job description

Are you ready to dive into the dynamic world of forensic science as a Forensic Chemist at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE)? This unique role is a blend of academic rigor, innovative research, and practical casework designed to drive the field of forensic chemistry forward. In this role, you will:

• Conduct Advanced Research: Lead and participate in research projects that expand the horizons of forensic chemistry, particularly in the analysis and characterization of seized drugs and adulterants.
• Develop and Implement Methods: Design, validate, and apply analytical methods for drug material testing, including quantitation and profiling of substances such as fentanyl and other narcotics.
• Share Expertise: Present your research findings at international and national scientific meetings and contribute to high‑impact scientific and academic journals.
• Educate and Mentor: Provide instruction and guidance in both bench and classroom settings, leveraging partnerships with prestigious universities where CFSRE professionals hold adjunct professorships and teaching roles.
• Uphold Scientific Standards: Maintain rigorous laboratory practices, ensure the integrity of data, and adhere to the highest ethical standards in all forensic analyses.

Who You’ll Work With

Joining the CFSRE as a Senior Scientist means becoming part of an elite team of toxicologists, chemists, scientists, biologists, and many other forensic experts. We have 5,000 square feet of bench space for sample preparation, and instrumentation dedicated to the field of forensic toxicology and chemistry. You will be supported by cutting‑edge resources while collaborating with industry leaders, engaging with a network of professionals from public health and safety sectors to translate your research into real‑world applications and impacts. Your work will contribute to a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and professional development.

Who You Are

You are a Forensic Chemist with moderate experience, a strong foundation in analytical chemistry and a passion for advancing the field. With a degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related discipline, and 2—5 years of experience in forensic chemistry, you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role.

Required Skills:

• Experience in analytical chemistry techniques, including chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
• Experience performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of drug materials.
• Proficiency with GC‑MS, LC‑QQQ‑MS, and LC‑QTOF‑MS, with hands‑on experience highly preferred.
• Familiarity with forensic laboratory protocols, evidence handling, and chain of custody procedures.
• A track record of basic research, including scientific abstracts, presentations, and publications.
• An eye for detail and a commitment to meticulous work to prevent contamination and misinterpretation.
• Strong data analysis, interpretation, and reporting skills.
• High level of proficiency using Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent communication abilities to articulate complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Dedication to ethical conduct and scientific integrity.
• Safe handling of hazardous materials and adherence to safety protocols.

Why CFSRE

Joining the Center for Forensic Science Research & Education in Horsham, PA, is not just employment—it’s a chance to lead in forensic science. Our new lab, equipped with the latest technology thanks to partnerships like the Fredric Rieders Family Foundation and NMS Labs, enables you to pioneer new forensic methods. Collaborations with Arcadia University and Thomas Jefferson University offer academic roles that complement your investigative work at CFSRE. You’ll find a rewarding career that merges innovation with education, set against the backdrop of the tranquil Horsham suburbs only 30 minutes from Philadelphia and a 2‑hour drive to beautiful beaches! Here, your contributions don’t only push scientific boundaries—they serve justice. Embrace a future at CFSRE, where your talents drive forensic science forward!

This is a full‑time employment position located at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) in Horsham, Pennsylvania.

For question or more information, please contact Dr. Alex Krotulski ([e-mail]) or [e-mail].