PfizerSenior Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry
Role Summary
The Chemical Process and Analytical Development (CPAD) group in Bothell, WA develops innovative and phase‑appropriate synthetic routes and scalable chemical processes, for novel small molecule components for use in targeted therapeutics. Our process chemists, analytical scientists, and chemical engineers collaborate to design robust, safe, and scalable chemistry that accelerates delivery of life‑changing therapeutics to patients.
As a Senior Principal Scientist in Process Chemistry, you will serve as a key technical leader driving route scouting, synthetic design, process development, and process characterization for our expanding portfolio. You will apply a strong foundation in modern synthetic organic chemistry and process research to design and develop scalable, innovative synthetic processes to novel medicines using state‑of‑the‑art technologies such as HTE, data‑rich experimentation, continuous processing, catalysis, and predictive software.
This role provides the opportunity to contribute through hands‑on laboratory innovation while guiding technical strategy for early and late‑stage programs. You will mentor junior scientists, lead cross‑functional project direction, and represent process chemistry both internally and externally. You will also oversee execution of GMP production batches through technology transfer and campaign oversight.
Role Responsibilities
Lead technical teams to design, execute, and interpret complex laboratory experiments aimed at route development, process optimization, and scale‑up.
Develop fit‑for‑purpose processes for early‑ and late‑stage programs, ensuring safety, robustness, and scalability.
Lead authorship of patents, publications, and regulatory documents.
Apply modern synthetic organic chemistry principles, high‑throughput experimentation, mechanistic insight, and data‑rich methods to accelerate development.
Effectively communicate scientific strategy, risks, and solutions to project teams, leadership, and partner functions.
Drive alignment to project timelines and portfolio strategy.
Mentor junior staff and foster an inclusive, scientifically rigorous, and collaborative environment.
Lead technology transfer and partner interactions to enable external development campaigns.
Build strong stakeholder relationships across process chemistry, partner functions, and project teams.
Maintain an external technical presence through publications and presentations.
Basic Qualifications
PhD in Organic Chemistry with 8+ years of industry experience in pharmaceutical process development, including route design, scale‑up, and GMP manufacturing; or a Master’s degree with 15+ years of relevant experience.
Deep foundational understanding of synthetic organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, process development, and modern purification and analytical technologies.
Demonstrated scientific impact via peer‑reviewed publications, patents, or conference presentations.
Strong communication skills with demonstrated collaborative leadership in cross functional process development teams.
Experience supporting development from preclinical through commercial stages.
Experience in regulated pharmaceutical environments including GMP operations and authoring regulatory submissions.
This is an on‑site role (5 days/week).
Submission of a research summary is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience developing drug‑linkers for ADCs, PROTACS, DACs or other targeted mixed‑modality therapeutics.
Experience mentoring and developing scientific staff.
Experience with technology transfer and oversight of external development work.
Experience at innovator pharmaceutical companies strongly preferred.
Candidate demonstrates a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.
Additional InformationRelocation support availableWork Location Assignment: On Premise
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $124,400.00 to $201,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 17.5% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life’s moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site – U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
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EEO & Employment Eligibility
Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
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Research and Development