Principal Scientist-Analytical Chemistry

Job Summary

The Principal Scientist, Analytical Chemistry revolves around leading and managing analytical projects, conducting advanced analytical research such as new method development, and providing expert guidance in analytical chemistry. The Principal Scientist, Analytical Chemistry is an expert in analytical chemistry and often plays a consultant role in

cross-functional teams including R&D, quality, regulatory, operation departments. The Principal Scientist, Analytical Chemistry will have direct reports and will be responsible for the reliability and accuracy of the analytical results that the team members deliver.

Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations

• Provide expert guidance in wet chemistry tests and experiments, driving continuous improvement in laboratory procedures.
• Oversee gas chromatography (GC) operations, including method validation, instrument qualification, and regulatory compliance.
• Direct high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) programs, collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Lead near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) initiatives and foster external collaborations.
• Set the vision for fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) processing and champion innovation in downstream processing techniques.
• Mentor all Analytical Scientists on the team
  
  

Analytical Method Development & Validation

• Lead the development and validation of analytical methods, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Utilize and optimize mass spectrometry (GC-MS or LC-MS) for compound identification and quantification and troubleshoot complex methods.
  
  

Experimental Design And Data Analysis

• Design and plan experiment independently, applying statistical methods for data interpretation.
• Collaborate on data analysis and lead advanced statistical analysis efforts.
  
  

Project Management

• Own and manage projects, ensuring alignment with goals and successful execution.
• Enhance experimental setups, protocols, and strategies
• Engage with stakeholders to convey research findings and incorporate insights.
• Share ideas in cross-functional meetings and discussions.
  
  

Strategic Vision

• Develop the strategic vision in collaboration with the Senior Director, bringing the unique experience of the Analytical Chemistry team.
• Contribute to budgeting analysis, strategic goal setting and setting team goals as a function of the goals set for Research and Development and the company as a whole
• Integrate research into broader company goals through collaboration with cross-functional teams.
  
  

People Management

• Manage direct reports, including performance management and fostering a positive team culture.
• Collaborate with Human Resources to address team-related issues and ensure a supportive work environment.
  
  

Technology Transfer

• Lead process transfers between stages, ensuring smooth knowledge and process transitions.
• Address challenges in technology transfer through collaboration with external stakeholders.
  
  

Publication And Intellectual Property

• Stay updated with relevant scientific literature and advancements.
• Contribute to writing publications and developing intellectual property.
• Collaborate with legal and IP teams to manage intellectual property.
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Expected to work occasionally in the evening and weekends due to the nature of biological experiments.
• Other duties as required
  
  

Required Competencies

• Advanced expertise in wet chemistry techniques (e.g., titrations, centrifugation, spectrophotometry), FAME processing, and GC maintenance; extensive experience in NIR analysis; and advanced proficiency in HPLC operation and maintenance. Proven ability to develop and validate analytical methods, implement quality control measures, manage projects, and train junior staff.
• Experience in managing direct reports, performance management, and team engagement
• Strong leadership in mentoring and guiding Fermentation Scientists. Ability to foster a positive team culture.
• Demonstrated project leadership and strategic planning abilities. Effective in managing project components and aligning with goals.
• Contribution to strategic planning and implementation. Collaborative approach in integrating research with company objectives.
• Leadership skills in process transfers and knowledge dissemination.
• Advanced skills in designing experiments and statistical analysis. Proficient in interpreting complex experimental results.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with internal and external stakeholders. Ability to represent the organization at conferences.
• Active involvement in scientific literature, publication contribution, and intellectual property development.
• A strong understanding of the business implications of research activities, contributing to business strategy development, and aligning technical efforts with broader business objectives.
• Advanced problem-solving skills to address complex challenges systematically and innovatively, making critical decisions for effective solutions.
• Exhibits exemplary independence and dependability by leading and managing entire project components, demonstrating advanced decision-making skills, providing guidance to junior team members, and consistently delivering high-quality results while adhering to project objectives and timelines.
  
  

Education and Experience

• PhD in Chemistry, Food Science, or a related discipline, or a related discipline. Equivalent experience in a relevant field will also be considered.
• Minimum 6 years hands-on experience in Analytical Chemistry operations, with a proven track record of independently leading and executing complex laboratory tasks.