• Principal Scientist

    Actalent (Durham, NC)


    Overview

     

    Actalent is supporting a leading pharmaceutical development and manufacturing organization in their search for a Principal Scientist with deep expertise in mass spectrometry and bioseparation techniques. This role is ideal for a seasoned analytical scientist who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about advancing biologics and large molecule therapeutics.

    Key Responsibilities

    + Lead the development and validation of analytical methods for biologics, peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids using HPLC, LC-MS/MS, UV spectroscopy, and capillary electrophoresis.

    + Perform advanced structural and functional characterization, including peptide mapping, amino acid analysis, glycosylation profiling, and disulfide bond identification.

    + Troubleshoot instrumentation and analytical workflows; maintain accurate documentation in electronic lab notebooks.

    + Interpret complex analytical data and prepare technical reports, SOPs, protocols, and client-facing summaries.

    + Collaborate with cross-functional teams in formulation, manufacturing, and quality to support product development and stability studies.

    + Participate in regulatory audits and contribute to IND filings and scientific publications.

    + Mentor junior scientists and lead technical investigations and root cause analyses.

    Required Qualifications

    + Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of 10 years of industry experience (Master’s with 11+ years or Bachelor’s with 15+ years also considered).

    + Demonstrated expertise in mass spectrometry, chromatography (RP, IEX, SEC), and protein characterization.

    + Strong working knowledge of cGMP regulations and pharmaceutical development processes.

    + Experience with Imaging Capillary Electrophoresis and Analytical Ultracentrifugation is highly desirable.

    + Excellent communication skills and ability to present findings to internal teams and external clients.

    + Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic lab documentation systems.

    Preferred Skills

    + Experience with cell and gene therapy products, bioassays, and small molecule analysis.

    + Familiarity with gel electrophoresis, sequencing, and accurate mass identification.

    + Prior involvement in regulatory submissions, scientific conferences, or peer-reviewed publications.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $125000.00/yr.

     

    Competitive health benefitsBonus program401(k) with matchPaid time offCollege loan reimbursement

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Durham,NC.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.