Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist

CFSRE; Horsham (PA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) in Horsham, PA, seeks a Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist to lead advanced research and develop validated drug testing methods. You will mentor university partners and publish findings, contributing to high‑impact science.

Join a collaborative, safety‑driven environment supported by top institutions and industry partners, advancing forensic science and real‑world justice.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in chemistry/forensic science with 8+ years in forensic chemistry.
• Strong analytical chemistry background with proven research output.
• Experience in qualitative and quantitative analysis of seized drugs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in advanced forensic chemistry research.
• Design, validate, and apply analytical methods for drug testing.
• Present findings at scientific meetings and publish in journals.
• Educate and mentor students and collaborators at partner universities.
• Maintain rigorous lab practices and data integrity.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Data analysis

Communication

Ethical conduct

Safety protocols

Mentoring

Excel

Coding/AI (preferred)

Education

PhD or Master’s in chemistry/forensic science

Tools

GC‑MS

LC‑QQQ‑MS

LC‑QTOF‑MS

Chromatography

Mass spectrometry

Job description

Are you ready to dive into the dynamic world of forensics as a Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist 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, NPS, emerging drugs, and adulterants.
• Develop and Implement Methods: Design, validate, and apply analytical methods for drug material testing, including qualitative and quantitation identification of substances such as fentanyl and other drugs.
• 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 Forensic Chemist 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 highly experienced Forensic Chemist with a strong foundation in analytical chemistry and a passion for advancing the field. With a PhD or Master’s degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related discipline, and 8+ years of experience in forensic chemistry, you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role.

Required Skills:

• Advanced expertise in analytical chemistry techniques, including chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
• Experience performing qualitative and quantitative analysis of seized drugs.
• Proficiency with GC‑MS, LC‑QQQ‑MS, and LC‑QTOF‑MS, with hands‑on experience is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with forensic laboratory protocols, evidence handling, and chain of custody procedures.
• A track record of advanced 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 and other programs.
• Knowledge and expertise in coding, machine learning, and/or artificial intelligence is preferred.
• Excellent communication abilities to articulate complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Dedication to ethical conduct and scientific integrity.
• Certification from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) or the American Chemical Society (ACS) is preferred.
• 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 tranquil Horsham suburbs only thirty minutes from Philadelphia and a two‑hour drive to beautiful beaches. Here, your contributions don't just 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 questions or more information, please contact Dr. Alex Krotulski ([e-mail]) or [e-mail].