Lead Research Scientist

Senior Research Scientist (Pharma)Croda is a FTSE 100 specialty chemical manufacturer driven by our purpose of Smart Science to Improve Lives. With a global presence and deep expertise in high-performance materials, Croda Pharma develops innovative solutions that support pharmaceutical development, drug delivery, and bioprocessing.We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist – Synthetic Chemistry (Polymer-Enabled) to join our Princeton R&D team. This role is designed for a strong synthetic chemist with a robust background in polymer chemistry and analytical science, who can operate beyond discovery chemistry to deliver scalable, manufacturable solutions within a specialty chemicals environment.You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including Process Development, Manufacturing, Quality, and Commercial functions, to translate scientific innovation into practical, industrial outcomes.Key ResponsibilitiesThe Senior Research Scientist will work closely with cross-functional teams and contribute to the design, development, and characterization of new excipient systems and the improvement of existing ones.Lead the design and synthesis of chemical systems, including polymers, small molecules, and hybrid materials for pharmaceutical applicationsApply polymer chemistry expertise to develop functional excipients, delivery-enabling materials, and specialty chemical solutions, while contributing broadly across synthetic chemistry challengesTranslate laboratory chemistry into scalable processes, working collaboratively with process development and manufacturing teamsUtilize analytical chemistry tools (e.g., NMR, HPLC, GPC, LC-MS, FTIR, GC-FID/MS, and thermal analysis) to characterize materials and guide development decisionsEstablish structure–property relationships to inform product performance and applicationApply data-driven approaches (DoE, statistical analysis) to optimize processes and ensure robustnessSupport identification of critical quality attributes (CQAs) and process parameters (CPPs) for commercial viabilityTroubleshoot challenges related to synthesis, purification, reproducibility, and scale-upCollaborate across functions to support technology transfer, commercialization, and customer-driven developmentGenerate high-quality technical documentation aligned with regulated or quality-driven environmentsMentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative, high-performance team cultureParticipate in general lab and instrument maintenance.Willing to learn new techniques and application areas.Qualifications & ExperiencePh.D. in Chemistry (Polymer, Organic, Materials, or related field)Typically 10+ years of relevant industrial experience, ideally within specialty chemicals, pharmaceutical, or related sectors.Strong foundation in synthetic chemistry, with demonstrated ability to work across both small molecules and polymeric systemsProven experience in polymer design, synthesis, modification, and characterizationHands-on experience in analytical chemistry (eg. GC-FID/MS, HPLC-ELSD/MS_and material characterization, with the ability to interpret complex datasets and guide development decisions· Experience or exposure to pharmaceutical formulation development, including working with excipients, understanding of drug delivery systems, and the ability to translate material properties into formulation performanceExperience in process development and scale-up, with an appreciation for manufacturing constraints and commercial requirementsFamiliarity with regulated environments (e.g., cGMP or adjacent) and expectations around documentation and data integrityExperience applying DoE, statistical tools, and data-driven approaches to process or product developmentUnderstanding of structure–property relationships and how they translate into product performanceAbility to operate effectively at the interface of innovation and industrial applicationStrong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in complex chemical systemsProven ability to lead and manage multiple projects simultaneouslyExcellent cross-functional collaboration and communication skillsDemonstrated ability to translate laboratory findings into practical, scalable solutionsProactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and business impactWhat We Offer:Join a global organization with countless opportunities for growth and leadership. The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:• Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, available immediately.• Generous PTO• 401K Match• Wellness Reimbursement• Parental Leave • Career Development• Company paid and voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance• Short and long term disability• Paid HolidaysApplication Information:This is an on-site position based at our Princeton, NJ site.Annual Base Salary Range: $120,000 to $145,000. This range reflects the base salary the company reasonably expects to pay for this position. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, experience, education, and skill level. Additional compensation, such as annual bonuses or other incentives, may be offered based on eligibility and company policies.If you require any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process or experience any issues with our online application process, please email View email address on click.appcast.io recognizes employees as our strength and the diversity they bring to our workforce are directly linked to our ongoing success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs.Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans. This Organization Participates in E-Verify