Scientist II

Abzena Inc.; Bristol Township (Bucks County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Abzena is seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to join our Process Development team. The successful candidate will lead development, optimization, and scale-up of synthetic processes for small molecules, linker‑payloads, and related compounds from early development through cGMP manufacturing.

This role requires strong technical expertise, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams including Analytical Development, Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality,

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with 1+ years of industrial experience or MS in Organic Chemistry with 4+ years in industry.
• Strong knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry and process development.
• Experience with reaction optimization, impurity control, and process scale-up.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as UPLC, HPLC, LC-MS, GC, and NMR.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize synthetic routes for small molecules and linker compounds.
• Develop scalable, robust manufacturing processes for pilot plant and cGMP production.
• Plan and perform lab experiments, analyze data, and guide process improvements.
• Troubleshoot synthetic and scale-up issues using scientific principles.
• Collaborate with Analytical Development, Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality, and Project Management for technology transfer.

Skills

Synthetic organic chemistry

Process development

Scale-up

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

MS in Organic Chemistry

Tools

UPLC

HPLC

LC-MS

GC

NMR

Job description

With extensive experience in developing biologics and bioconjugates, we offer a seamless service delivered by fully integrated teams, from early discovery to commercial manufacturing.

Forward-thinking and committed, we find the best solution and use the right technologies to design, develop and manufacture your products to ensure we get vital medicines to patients quickly and safely.

We are dedicated to quality excellence. We are driven to get better treatments to market, efficiently and responsibly by reducing timelines and delivering the highest quality products and services.

We are Abzena. More than a CDMO, we are a responsible and dedicated partner that takes care of your products from concept to patient.

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to join our Process Development team. The successful candidate will lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of synthetic processes for small molecules, linker‑payloads, intermediates, and related compounds from early development through cGMP manufacturing. This role requires strong technical expertise, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize synthetic routes for small molecules, intermediates, and complex drug-linker compounds.
• Develop scalable, robust, and cost-effective manufacturing processes suitable for pilot plant and cGMP production.
• Plan and perform laboratory experiments, analyze data, and interpret results to guide process improvements.
• Troubleshoot challenging synthetic and scale-up issues using sound scientific principles.
• Collaborate with Analytical Development, Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality, Supply Chain, and Project Management teams to ensure successful technology transfer and manufacturing campaigns.
• Prepare technical reports, batch records, process descriptions, risk assessments, and technology transfer documentation.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and ensure documentation complies with company and regulatory standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with 1+ years of industrial experience, or
• M.S. in Organic Chemistry with 4+ years of industrial experience, or
• Strong knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry and process development.
• Experience with reaction optimization, impurity control, and process scale-up.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as UPLC, HPLC, LC-MS, GC, and NMR.
• Excellent scientific writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CDMO environments.
• Experience supporting cGMP manufacturing campaigns and technology transfer.
• Experience with linker‑payload synthesis, peptide coupling chemistry, or highly potent compounds is desirable.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for 1-2 hours at a time, sit for 2 to 3 hours at a time.
• Frequently lift and or move objects up to 30 pounds.
• Stand/walk during entire length of shift.
• Use arms, hands, and fingers to handle, feel or reach.
• Ability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Visual abilities including near and far sight, color, peripheral vision, depth, and ability to focus.
• Ability to work with a PAPR and gown during work with high potent materials.

FLSA: Exempt

Abzena is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, and training.