Principal Scientist

Actalent; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical organization is seeking a Principal Scientist in Durham, NC. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and at least 10 years of experience in mass spectrometry and analytical techniques. Responsibilities include developing methods for biologics and mentoring junior scientists. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Benefits

Competitive health benefits

Bonus program

401(k) with match

Paid time off

College loan reimbursement

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of industry experience required.
• Expertise in mass spectrometry and chromatography is essential.
• Excellent communication skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and validation of analytical methods.
• Interpret complex analytical data and prepare technical reports.
• Mentor junior scientists and lead technical investigations.

Skills

Mass spectrometry

Chromatography

Analytical techniques

cGMP regulations

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS/MS

UV spectroscopy

Capillary electrophoresis

Job description

Overview

Actalent is supporting a leading pharmaceutical development and manufacturing organization in their search for a Principal Scientist with deep expertise in mass spectrometry and bioseparation techniques. This role is ideal for a seasoned analytical scientist who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about advancing biologics and large molecule therapeutics.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and validation of analytical methods for biologics, peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids using HPLC, LC-MS/MS, UV spectroscopy, and capillary electrophoresis.
• Perform advanced structural and functional characterization, including peptide mapping, amino acid analysis, glycosylation profiling, and disulfide bond identification.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and analytical workflows; maintain accurate documentation in electronic lab notebooks.
• Interpret complex analytical data and prepare technical reports, SOPs, protocols, and client-facing summaries.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in formulation, manufacturing, and quality to support product development and stability studies.
• Participate in regulatory audits and contribute to IND filings and scientific publications.
• Mentor junior scientists and lead technical investigations and root cause analyses.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of 10 years of industry experience (Master’s with 11+ years or Bachelor’s with 15+ years also considered).
• Demonstrated expertise in mass spectrometry, chromatography (RP, IEX, SEC), and protein characterization.
• Strong working knowledge of cGMP regulations and pharmaceutical development processes.
• Experience with Imaging Capillary Electrophoresis and Analytical Ultracentrifugation is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to present findings to internal teams and external clients.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic lab documentation systems.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with cell and gene therapy products, bioassays, and small molecule analysis.
• Familiarity with gel electrophoresis, sequencing, and accurate mass identification.
• Prior involvement in regulatory submissions, scientific conferences, or peer-reviewed publications.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $125000.00/yr.

Competitive health benefits, Bonus program, 401(k) with match, Paid time off, College loan reimbursement

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Durham, NC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.