Principal Research Scientist I – Process Chemistry (Drug Conjugates)
Company: AbbVie
Function: Research & Development – Process Chemistry / CMC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Job ID: R00139241
Location: North Chicago, Illinois, USA
Experience Required: 6–14+ years (based on academic qualification)
About AbbVie
AbbVie is a global, research-driven biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and delivering innovative medicines that address serious diseases and unmet medical needs. With a strong scientific foundation across immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, and aesthetics, AbbVie advances therapies that make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives worldwide.
Position Overview
AbbVie Process Chemistry is seeking a Principal Research Scientist I (Chemistry) to lead the process research and development of drug conjugates from preclinical stages through late-phase clinical development. This is a senior scientific leadership role with responsibility for advancing conjugation chemistry, downstream processing, and scalable drug substance manufacturing strategies.
The successful candidate will serve as the Chemistry representative on cross-functional CMC teams, driving timelines, technical execution, and scientific decision-making for drug conjugate programs from First-in-Human (FIH) to commercialization readiness.
Key Responsibilities
Lead process development, optimization, and characterization activities for novel drug conjugates and related synthetic modalities
Design and translate laboratory-scale conjugation and downstream unit operations into robust, scalable manufacturing processes
Serve as a core member of CMC project teams, providing chemistry leadership for preclinical and clinical programs
Develop and execute drug substance strategies, timelines, and deliverables aligned with program milestones
Mentor and scientifically develop junior staff, fostering innovative experimental approaches to complex technical challenges
Collaborate closely with analytical, manufacturing, formulation, and program management teams to ensure integrated development
Author, review, and approve technical reports, development summaries, regulatory documents, and laboratory records
Drive continuous improvement initiatives within process chemistry and CMC development
Ensure strict compliance with corporate safety standards, GxP requirements, and AbbVie’s code of conduct
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (14+ years experience), Master’s degree (12+ years experience), or PhD (6+ years experience) in Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline
Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience in a pharmaceutical or biotech laboratory environment
Demonstrated expertise in drug-conjugate process development
Strong foundation in modern organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, control strategies, and regulatory starting material concepts
Proven ability to lead scientific projects and influence cross-functional teams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly
Preferred Experience & Skills
Experience authoring development reports and supporting global regulatory submissions
Strong understanding of global regulatory expectations for CMC and process development
Demonstrated success leading cross-functional process development initiatives
Ability to mentor, coach, and scientifically develop team members
Core Competencies
Builds strong collaborative relationships across disciplines and functions
Learns quickly, adapts to evolving scientific and program needs, and drives results
Challenges conventional thinking and continuously raises scientific standards
Encourages innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning
Translates scientific ideas into practical, scalable solutions
Compensation & Benefits (U.S. Locations)
Annual Base Salary Range: USD 121,000 – 230,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and location
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, paid time off, holidays, and retirement plans
Eligibility for short-term incentive and bonus programs
Equal Opportunity Statement
AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to integrity, innovation, inclusion, and diversity. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants throughout the recruitment process.
Recruitment Fraud Notice
AbbVie does not request payments, banking information, or sensitive personal data during recruitment. Candidates are advised to verify all communications claiming to represent AbbVie.
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