Principal Research Scientist I (Manager), Analytical R&D

ZipRecruiter; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the pharmaceutical industry seeks a Principal Research Scientist I to lead a team in early phase development of small molecule NCEs. This on-site role requires extensive expertise in analytical chemistry and regulatory guidelines. The successful candidate will mentor staff, develop analytical methods, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. Join a diverse team committed to innovation and scientific excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years experience for Ph.D. candidates, 12 for Master's, 14 for Bachelor's.
• People management experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team supporting NCE development from pre-clinical to Phase II trials.
• Develop and implement analytical methods for drug discovery candidates.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory policies.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Analytical Chemistry

Master's in Analytical Chemistry

Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

MS

GC

ICP-OES

IC

NMR

Data Systems

Job description

Job Description

Company Description
AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas – immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Job Description

Group:

AbbVie Analytical Research & Development (Analytical R&D) is a global analytical scientific organization responsible for all CMC analytical activities related to the development of AbbVie's pharmaceutical products. Our scope includes AbbVie's diverse pipeline of innovative small molecule medicines, spanning from the selection of discovery candidate molecules to late-stage clinical development. We are building a world-class team of scientists and leaders to advance analytical capabilities and contribute to AbbVie's pipeline of innovative medicines. Careers in AbbVie Analytical R&D offer opportunities to work with global, cross-functional teams to drive science and product development strategies. We seek diverse candidates with strong scientific and leadership experience to join our team and enjoy rewarding career opportunities.

Position Overview:

For the Principal Research Scientist I position, we are seeking a highly motivated, experienced analytical scientist to lead a team supporting early phase development of small molecule NCEs (drug substance and drug product) in preclinical and clinical programs.

The candidate should have extensive expertise in applying regulatory guidelines within an R&D environment, with a focus on analytical control strategies, method development, characterization, validation, release, and stability testing. The candidate will need to direct research and project activities, mentor and supervise scientific personnel, conceive and communicate research strategies, serve as a lead scientist, and foster collaborations within the organization and with cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities:

• Mentor and supervise a team supporting NCE development from pre-clinical to Phase II trials, ensuring team performance.
• Develop and implement analytical methods and control strategies for drug discovery candidates.
• Apply analytical techniques for impurity profiling and process understanding.
• Generate scientific proposals and lead efforts, responding to regulatory and scientific advances.
• Conduct research on small-molecule drug products, APIs, intermediates, and impurities.
• Demonstrate scientific initiative, creativity, and productivity.
• Promote innovation, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory policies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry with relevant industry experience (minimum 14, 12, or 6 years respectively).
• People management experience.
• Strong analytical chemistry background and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with HPLC, MS, GC, ICP-OES, IC, NMR, and data systems.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team.

Additional Information:

This is an on-site role at AbbVie's campus north of Chicago, with compensation based on experience and location, including benefits and incentive programs. AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. For more details, visit our website or contact us for accommodations.