Senior Scientist I
$162,000–$189,000 year
Hybrid · South San Francisco, California, United States
Job Summary
Senior Scientist I at Cytokinetics leads design, optimization, and scale-up of robust manufacturing routes for small molecule drug substances, applying modern synthetic methodologies to improve yield, purity, and scalability. The role involves process characterization, data generation to establish critical process parameters, collaboration with CDMOs for tech transfer and scale-up from lab to pilot to commercial production, and preparation of development reports and regulatory responses. The candidate will contribute to cross-functional teams across Analytical Development, Formulation Development, and External Manufacturing, mentoring junior scientists and communicating findings to internal and external stakeholders. Qualifications include a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (or related field) with 5+ years in biotech/biopharma small molecule development (or MS with 8+ years), strong synthetic chemistry expertise, experience with process development and transfer, proficiency in HPLC/LC-MS/NMR, familiarity with cGMP, and excellent communication skills.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (or related field) with 5+ years of biotech/biopharma experience in small molecule drug substance development; or MS with 8+ years of relevant experience
- Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including multi-step synthesis and reaction optimization
- Experience in process development, scale-up, and technology transfer of small molecule APIs
- Proficiency in analytical techniques (HPLC, LC-MS, NMR) for drug substance characterization
- Familiarity with cGMP regulations and quality systems in pharmaceutical development
- Excellent problem-solving and written/verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment
- Experience with cross-functional collaboration (Analytical Development, Formulation Development, External Manufacturing)
- Ability to author technical development reports and support regulatory filings (IND, IMPD)
- Safety, quality, and regulatory mindset for scalable manufacturing
- Strong data management and record-keeping practices
- Experience with CDMO partnerships and tech transfer methods
- Knowledge of regulatory expectations and clinical development plans
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