Postdoctoral Scientist - Chemical Research and Development

Company Information

You Matter to Cambrex.

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance, drug product, and analytical services across the entire drug lifecycle. With more than 40 years of experience and a growing team of over 2,000 professionals servicing global clients, Cambrex is a trusted partner in branded and generic markets for API and dosage form development and manufacturing.

Your Work Matters.

At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to:

• engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve
• learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment
• strengthen connections with coworkers and the community

We’re committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company.  We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!

Your Future Matters.

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!

Job Overview

The Postdoctoral Scientist - Chemical R&D is an entry-level scientific role designed to provide structured training in chemical research and development. The position focuses on optimizing existing synthetic routes and exploring alternative chemistry for key intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The Fellow will independently or collaboratively perform multistep chemical syntheses, including isolation and purification of products. Utilizing modern analytical techniques, the Fellow will assess product identity and purity throughout the project lifecycle. Responsibilities also include frequent meetings with assigned mentor, participation in client meetings and preparation of comprehensive R&D reports upon project completion.

Responsibilities

►Carry out multistep organic syntheses, isolation, and purification of targeted products under supervision or direction of a senior member of the team.

► Must possess a basic understanding of modern organic synthesis methodologies.

► The chemist must have a fundamental understanding of modern analytical and spectroscopic techniques and may possess the ability to interpret the corresponding data and spectra.

► Must demonstrate a proficiency to carry out laboratory syntheses and purification techniques on scales ranging from milligrams to several kilograms.

► Require minimal supervision and be able to coordinate project activities and resource usage.

► Demonstrate ability to write comprehensive reports at the conclusion of projects for internal and customer use.

► With manager input, assist in advising clients on key regulatory guidance.

► Work to ensure that a spirit of teamwork and cooperation always exists within the group.

► Conduct laboratory operations in a safe manner. Maintain familiarity with the company’s chemical hygiene plan. Exhibit safety awareness and safe work practices.

► Work closely with manufacturing and GMP operations to coordinate project related equipment and activities.

► Maintain a clean, safe laboratory work area.

► This position works with and handles hazardous materials and wastes. Must have the appropriate qualifications to read, understand, apply, and communicate written and verbal information regarding handling and managing hazardous wastes. Training is required within six months of assuming duty and once a year thereafter. Responsible for recognizing emergency situations concerning hazardous materials and wastes

►This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Postdoctoral Fellow role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities associated with the position. Nothing in this job description restricts the company’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time. Employment is subject to applicable policies, procedures, and legal requirements.

Qualifications/Skills

Organic Chemistry Knowledge: Good understanding of the Principles of Organic Chemistry, some process

development experience preferred.

Cross Discipline Knowledge: Basic understanding of the principles of cross-functional departments, including

analytical chemistry and/or engineering.

GMP/Regulatory Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of GMP as it relates to current work. With

manager input, can help to advise clients on key regulatory strategies.

Instrumentation: Good fundamental understanding and ability to use/investigate issues with HPLC, GC; may

have some experience with In-situ reaction monitoring and/or automated reactor platforms.

Communication: Good written and oral communication skills, ability to handle client requests with manager

review.

Problem Solving: Able to solve problems in the workplace and helps to lead investigations with manager

support.

Time Management: Good understanding of time management and can self-organize with or without

supervision.

Leadership: Strong demonstration of sharing key ideas across the group.

Technical Documentation and Review: Ability to write and review reports and technical documents with

minimal RFT errors, keep current lab notebook while practicing GDP.

External Influence: Actively participates in regular internal project team meetings, including submission of key

technical reports; organizes group level initiatives within the larger scientific team.

Industry Credibility and Rapport: Known as a solid scientific contributor within the department/group

Operational Excellence: Able to support key OE initiatives.

Change Orientation: Locally supports changes associated with larger Cambrex initiatives.

Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related discipline is required.
• No prior industry experience is necessary; however, hands-on experience in a laboratory setting is essential.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, along with interpersonal and organizational abilities, are critical for success in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), SharePoint, and Chemdraw is expected.

Program Duration & Advancement:
This fellowship will last a minimum of 10 to 12 months and is intended to culminate in either a promotion to a Senior Scientist 1 – CRD position or an extension of training, based on performance and business needs. 

► Some active work, exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or the amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The daily work is performed is primarily in a laboratory setting. Walking and standing are required regularly.

► Position also requires visual acuity, talking and fingering.

► Involves regular use of basic PPE (personal protective equipment) such as supplied air respirator, negative pressure respirator, gloves, safety glasses, shielding clothing.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Postdoctoral Fellow role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities associated with the position. Nothing in this job description restricts the company’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time. Employment is subject to applicable policies, procedures, and legal requirements.

All requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Cambrex Corporation is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, age, marital status, disability/handicap, genetic information, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state, and/or local law.

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