Sr. Scientist R&D

RiseMe; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 116,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

Bachem Americas in Torrance, CA, seeks a Senior Scientist in Research & Development to lead complex peptide development programs, scale-up, and technology transfer. You will guide cross-functional teams and advance CMC strategies for lifecycle management, ensuring high scientific rigor and collaboration with manufacturing and quality groups.

The role emphasizes independent leadership, mentoring, and driving innovative peptide process improvements within a cGMP environment, delivering robust

Qualifications

• Master's degree with 6+ years peptide R&D experience or PhD with 3+ years
• Strong knowledge of peptide synthesis and purification
• Familiarity with cGMP and quality systems
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills
• Ability to mentor scientists and lead projects

Responsibilities

• Lead complex research, process development, scale-up, and troubleshooting.
• Develop technical strategies and experimental approaches.
• Serve as technical lead for development programs and cross-functional teams.
• Prepare and review technical reports and risk assessments.
• Identify and implement new technologies to improve capabilities.
• Drive continuous improvement and technology implementation.
• Provide mentoring and technical guidance to staff.
• Develop technical training programs.
• Support customer interactions with scientific leadership.

Skills

Peptide chemistry

Process development

Synthesis

Purification

Data analysis

Technical leadership

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Chemistry or related

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Chromatography systems

Lyophilization equipment

Analytical instrumentation

cGMP systems

Job description

A brief overview

The Research & Development (R&D) organization at Bachem Torrance is part of a global network of scientific and technical experts dedicated to advancing peptide manufacturing technologies and supporting customers throughout the entire product lifecycle, from early development through commercial manufacturing. The department partners closely with customers to develop robust Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) strategies, enabling successful progression through preclinical development, clinical development, regulatory submission, commercialization, and lifecycle management. R&D is responsible for the development, optimization, scale-up, technology transfer, and continuous improvement of peptide manufacturing processes and related technologies. The organization combines deep expertise in peptide chemistry, process development, analytical sciences, manufacturing science, and engineering to deliver innovative, scalable, and commercially viable solutions that address complex technical challenges and accelerate development timelines. In addition to process and technology development, the department operates laboratory and pilot-scale manufacturing capabilities supporting both non-GMP and cGMP production activities. These capabilities enable rapid process evaluation, process characterization, clinical supply manufacturing, technology transfer, and manufacturing support while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and scientific rigor. As a recognized leader in peptide development and manufacturing, R&D drives innovation through the evaluation, development, and implementation of advanced chemical processes, automation technologies, digital solutions, and next-generation manufacturing platforms. The organization continually explores emerging technologies and novel scientific approaches to strengthen Bachem's capabilities, improve process performance, and expand industry-leading CDMO services. Working collaboratively across global R&D sites and in partnership with Manufacturing, Analytical Development, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Project Management, and Commercial teams, the department plays a critical role in delivering innovative solutions that support customer success, operational excellence, and the long-term strategic growth of Bachem. The Senior Scientist R&D is a recognized technical expert responsible for independently leading complex development programs and scientific initiatives. This role provides technical leadership within project teams, drives innovation and continuous improvement efforts, and contributes to the advancement of process development, scale-up, technology implementation, and lifecycle management activities. The Senior Scientist actively shares knowledge throughout the organization and serves as a mentor for scientists and technical staff.

What you will do

• Lead complex research, process development, scale-up, technology evaluation, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop technical strategies and experimental approaches to address challenging scientific and operational objectives.
• Serve as technical lead for development programs and cross-functional project teams.
• Prepare and review complex technical reports, proposals, risk assessments, development strategies, and customer-facing scientific documentation.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement innovative technologies, equipment, and methodologies to improve technical capabilities and operational performance.
• Drive continuous improvement, change management, and technology implementation initiatives within the department.
• Provide mentoring, coaching, and technical guidance to Scientists and other technical personnel.
• Develop and deliver technical training programs that enhance organizational knowledge and competency.
• Support customer interactions by providing scientific leadership and technical expertise.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology with at least 6 years of experience in peptide research, manufacturing and/or process development required or
• PhD in Chemistry or related fields with at least 3 years of experience in peptide research, manufacturing and/or process development required
• Strong knowledge of organic chemistry, peptide chemistry, process development, and pharmaceutical manufacturing principles.
• Thorough understanding of peptide synthesis, purification, isolation, and associated analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze complex data sets, and develop scientifically sound conclusions and recommendations.
• Knowledge of process development activities including feasibility studies, process optimization, scale-up, technology transfer, manufacturing support, and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with laboratory and manufacturing technologies commonly used for peptide development and production, including synthesis reactors, chromatography systems, lyophilization, and related equipment.
• Strong technical writing skills with the ability to prepare reports, protocols, risk assessments, presentations, and other scientific documentation for diverse audiences.
• Effective verbal communication and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate complex scientific topics clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to independently develop and implement effective technical solutions.
• Ability to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and support implementation of new technologies, methodologies, and business processes.
• Working knowledge of cGMP requirements, quality systems, data integrity principles, and applicable regulatory expectations.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment through adherence to Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements and proactive identification of potential risks.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and scientific software platforms, including the ability to rapidly learn and effectively utilize new systems and technologies.
• Ability to train, coach, and share technical knowledge with colleagues while fostering a collaborative and continuous learning environment.
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and ownership, with the ability to work independently while understanding the broader objectives of projects and organizational goals.

Base Annual Salary Range: Sr. Scientist: $115,767 - $159,180

Placement of new hires in these wage ranges is based on several factors including education, skill sets, experience, and training.

Total Rewards

We offer all Team Members a total rewards package including competitive pay, annual performance bonus, a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution, and paid vacation, personal and sick days.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Bachem takes responsibility for future generations by a careful handling of resources and avoiding environmental risks. We continually improve our ecological performance and develop and implement new approaches for enhancing employees' environmental awareness. EcoVadis has awarded Bachem Gold Medal status in their assessment of Bachem.

Bachem Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the diversity of our team and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where individuals are hired and advanced based on merit, skills, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other legally protected status.