Principal Scientist, Method Development – Validation

Bachem

Principal Scientist designing advanced analytical methods and control strategies for peptide API and raw material testing at Bachem. Guiding method development and validation in a GMP environment.

Posted 4/16/2026full-timeSan Diego • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $131,246 - $180,463 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Independently design and implement advanced analytical methods and control strategies for peptide API and raw material testing using techniques such as HPLC, UPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, SEC, KF, and others as needed
Independently plan and execute validation studies for test methods
Implement and perform analytical method transfer to Quality Control Department
Write validation protocols and final reports, test methods, standard operating procedures, and technical reports
Provide guidance and training to junior MDV Scientists, peers and Quality Control analysts
Routinely work with hazardous materials and manage hazardous waste in a satellite accumulation area
Build or expand the analytical capabilities as needed. Recommend and implement improvements to methods, laboratory operations and assist in evaluating the need of any potential equipment for analytical purposes.
Independently conduct and document investigations related to validation activities
Contribute to GMP systems improvement
Develop and maintain in-depth understanding of the scientific principles associated with analytical methods being developed, optimized, transferred, validated, and qualified

Requirements

What you’ll need

B.S. in chemistry or related scientific field with 15+ years’ industry experience
M.S. in chemistry or related scientific field with 15+ years’ industry experience
Ph.D. in chemistry or related scientific field with 12+ years’ industry experience (preferred)
3+ years’ experience in a GMP environment
10+ years’ experience in Method Development & Validation: extensive hands-on experience in method development, optimization, and validation of methods using the following instrumentation: LC-MS, UPLC, HPLC, GC-MS, MS-MS, KF and other routine Analytical methodologies in a deadline driven environment.
Experience with Peptides (preferred)
10+ years’ experience with ICH, FDA, USP, and GMP/GLP standards.
10+ years’ experience independently analyzing complex data, identification of trends, and resolution of technical issues in routine testing.
7+ years’ experience in Technical Leadership & Reporting: Serve as a project SME, providing analytical support to internal and external customers.
Experience with use of Master Control or Veeva (preferred)
Extensive hands-on experience with HPLC (SEC, IC)/UPLC, GC, KF, Amino Acid Analysis, MS, MS/MS sequencing and LC-MS.
Extensive experience in troubleshooting instrumentation and training others and implementation of best practices.
Experience in writing standard operating procedures (SOPs), test methods, technical protocols, reports and other documents in compliance with GMP/GLP
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to effectively organize, multitask, and work in a fast-paced, timeline driven work environment.
Experience in evaluation and implementation of innovation projects (new test strategies, automation, instrumentation, etc)
Ability to coordinate work with other functions/departments to achieve project objectives.
Ability to provide expertise to management, technical project leaders, project/program leaders on method feasibility and risk assessment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

competitive pay
annual performance bonus
a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage
401(k) plan with employer contribution
paid vacation, personal and sick days

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

HPLCUPLCLC-MSGC-MSSECKFmethod developmentmethod validationdata analysistroubleshooting

Soft Skills

communicationorganizational skillsmultitaskingtechnical leadershiptrainingproject managementproblem-solvingcollaborationguidanceinnovation

Certifications

B.S. in chemistryM.S. in chemistryPh.D. in chemistryGMP certificationGLP certification