Principal Biocatalysis & Process Chemistry Scientist

ABBVIE; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 125,000 - 237,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie is seeking a Principal Research Scientist I in Process Chemistry with biocatalysis expertise to advance scalable API synthesis. You will lead enzyme discovery, engineering, and development, integrating AI/ML and high-throughput workflows to accelerate optimization.

Collaboration across teams and adherence to GxP are essential in this role. Ideal candidates bring strong organic/inorganic chemistry fundamentals, hands-on biocatalysis experience, and leadership skills to drive innovative

Qualifications

• Expert in biocatalysis for scalable API synthesis.
• Experience with enzyme discovery and directed evolution.
• Proficiency in recombinant DNA techniques and protein expression.
• Ability to apply AI/ML tools to optimize enzyme-catalyzed reactions.
• Experience with high-throughput experimentation (HTE).

Responsibilities

• Contribute to setting and implementing strategies for solving complex synthetic problems via biocatalytic methods.
• Identify and design enzymes; apply recombinant DNA and directed evolution to engineer better biocatalysts.
• Leverage AI/ML, bioinformatics, and HTE to accelerate enzyme screening and process development.
• Participate in and/or lead project teams for API process development and characterization.
• Document findings, ensure compliance with GxP and quality standards.

Skills

Biocatalysis

Enzyme screening

Recombinant DNA

Protein expression

AI/ML tools

Data analysis

HTE platforms

Leadership

Communication

Education

Inorganic chemistry

Tools

HTE platforms

AI/ML tools

Data analysis workflows

Recombinant DNA techniques

Job description

AbbVie is seeking a Principal Research Scientist I in Process Chemistry with biocatalysis expertise to advance scalable API synthesis. You will lead enzyme discovery, engineering, and development, integrating AI/ML and high-throughput workflows to accelerate optimization.

Collaboration across teams and adherence to GxP are essential in this role. Ideal candidates bring strong organic/inorganic chemistry fundamentals, hands-on biocatalysis experience, and leadership skills to drive innovative