Principal Scientist, Chromatography Materials Innovation

Principal Scientist, Chromatography Materials Innovation

Location: Hercules, CA

Position Overview

We are looking for a seasoned scientific leader to join our research organization as a Principal Scientist focused on advanced chromatography materials. This role plays a pivotal part in the invention, development, and industrialization of polymer-based separation media, with particular emphasis on protein purification technologies.

The successful candidate will combine deep technical expertise with collaborative leadership, working across research, operations, and applications teams to translate novel material concepts into robust, manufacturable products. You will be recognized internally as a technical authority in chromatography while actively mentoring scientists and influencing strategic R&D direction.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide scientific leadership to cross-functional R&D teams, guiding experimental strategy and technical execution
• Invent and develop polymeric and functional materials for use in chromatographic separation media
• Optimize stationary phase chemistries to balance separation performance, scalability, and production robustness
• Design and run protein purification studies (e.g., affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction) to assess material performance
• Partner with Manufacturing and Process Development to transition lab-scale chemistries to pilot and full-scale production
• Interpret complex datasets and communicate findings through technical reports, reviews, and presentations
• Act as a senior reviewer for experimental plans, data packages, and technical documentation
• Support internal and external technical discussions as a subject matter expert in chromatography materials

Required Expertise & Experience

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a closely related field
• 10 years of industry experience following the Ph.D., with a strong focus on chromatography media or separation technologies
• Advanced knowledge of polymer synthesis, surface functionalization, and material characterization techniques
• Direct, hands-on experience with protein purification and chromatographic method evaluation
• Demonstrated success scaling chemical or material processes from research to manufacturing environments
• Proven ability to lead technically complex projects and mentor scientists at varying career stages
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence across R&D, Operations, and Commercial teams

Additional Qualifications (Preferred)

• Experience supporting customer applications, field teams, or technical collaborations
• Familiarity with bioprocessing, life science tools, or separation science product development
• Track record of contributing to products that have progressed from early R&D to commercial launch