Welcome Back

Google icon Sign in with Google
OR
I agree to abide by Pharmadaily Terms of Service and its Privacy Policy

Create Account

Google icon Sign up with Google
OR
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Instagram
youtube
Facebook

Sr Scientist I (Process Chemistry)

0-7 years
Not Disclosed
10 Dec. 9, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Hybrid Education: B.Sc./ M.Sc./ M.Pharm/ B.Pharm/ Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Senior Scientist I – Process Chemistry
Location: United States (On-site | Hybrid options depending on business needs)
Category: Process Chemistry | CMC | Drug Substance Development


Position Summary

Exelixis is seeking a Senior Scientist I, Process Chemistry to lead and execute in-house process development activities that support early-stage and preclinical research programs. This role focuses on evaluating synthetic routes, optimizing processes for scale-up, supporting drug substance manufacturing, and ensuring smooth technology transfer to contract manufacturing partners. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, CMC teams, and cross-functional stakeholders to deliver high-quality drug substance for ongoing projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with discovery chemistry teams to assess and refine synthetic routes, enabling efficient scale-up of target compounds and key intermediates.

  • Conduct in-house process development, optimization, and troubleshooting to support timely delivery of material for preclinical studies.

  • Perform physical and chemical characterization of compounds, including solid-state assessments and polymorph screening to define stable DS polymorphs.

  • Prepare detailed process transfer documentation and technical packages for CMO/CRO partners.

  • Source and qualify appropriate starting materials in collaboration with project teams.

  • Support CMC regulatory activities, including drafting and reviewing regulatory filing sections as needed.

  • Work closely with Manufacturing, Formulation Development, Quality, Analytical Chemistry, and other internal teams to ensure high-quality and timely delivery of drug substance.

  • Stay updated on industry trends, scientific publications, and regulatory guidelines relevant to process chemistry and CMC development.


Supervisory Responsibilities

  • This role does not include direct supervisory duties.


Education & Experience Requirements

Required Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Science, or related discipline with a minimum of 7 years of industry experience, or

  • Master’s degree in relevant fields with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience, or

  • PhD in relevant fields with 0+ years of experience, or

  • Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience Required:

  • Proven track record of delivering process chemistry results with high quality and scientific rigor.

  • Experience with solid-state characterization and polymorph screening is preferred.

  • Experience supporting or managing GMP manufacturing and CMO collaboration is a plus.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong expertise in process chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, and analytical methods (NMR, MS, HPLC).

  • Understanding of physical–chemical properties, polymorphism, and compound characterization.

  • Demonstrated ability to design, optimize, and scale up drug substance manufacturing processes.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally.

  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in parallel.

  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while maintaining alignment with project teams.


Work Environment

Exelixis offers a modern, collaborative, open-plan workspace designed to promote innovation and teamwork. Employees have access to ergonomic equipment and a supportive environment that enables high performance.


Compensation and Benefits

  • Base Salary Range: USD $116,000 – $165,500 annually, adjusted based on geographic region, experience, and internal equity.

  • Comprehensive Total Rewards package including:

    • 401(k) with company contributions

    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

    • Life and disability coverage

    • Flexible spending accounts

    • Annual discretionary bonus eligibility

    • Employee stock purchase program and long-term incentives

    • 15 vacation days in the first year

    • 17 paid holidays, including a December winter shutdown

    • Up to 10 annual sick days


Equal Opportunity Statement

Exelixis is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a workplace free from discrimination based on race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any protected category.


Disclaimer

This job description outlines the primary scope of responsibilities and qualifications and is not an exhaustive list of all duties associated with the position.