Pharma Analytical Chemist

Cogent Scientific•Watertown, MA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is hiring a Pharma Analytical Chemist to support life sciences research through specialized laboratory services. The role is based onsite at the Watertown, Massachusetts site and works a day shift, approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time. Remote and hybrid schedules are not available. The chemist develops, optimizes, and validates analytical methods and performs characterization and routine quality control testing for lipid nanoparticle (LNP) batches, RNA, proteins, and conjugates. The position also includes troubleshooting analytical methods and instruments, interpreting data, identifying trends, and presenting findings to the team. The ideal candidate is self-motivated and adaptable, with strong communication and problem-solving skills and the ability to contribute independently and within a multidisciplinary team. Cogent Scientific describes its mission as supporting the life sciences industry by cultivating and empowering scientists to deliver specialized laboratory services that advance research, foster collaboration, and accelerate innovation through quality and a shared commitment to excellence. The company offers competitive pay, benefits, and an engaging work environment. Relocation benefits may be available. The posting closes by December 31, 2026, or when a candidate is identified, whichever comes first.

Requirements

BS or MS in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
0–5 years of laboratory experience in analytical sciences, drug delivery, biologics, or nucleic acid therapeutics.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work well independently and within a team.
Very strong problem-solving skills, learning agility, and ability to work across functions.
Enthusiasm, self-motivation, leadership and communication skills, flexibility, and an adaptable approach to delivering goals in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

Develop, optimize, and validate HPLC-based methods for RNA quantification and purity assessment.
Develop and troubleshoot LC-MS/MS methods for LNP lipid component and RNA quantification.
Perform routine QC testing of LNP batches, including lipid quantification, RNA integrity, and total RNA content.
Determine encapsulation efficiency using orthogonal methods such as HPLC, AEX, and RiboGreen.
Perform separations-based characterization using SEC, HIC, AEX/IEX, and RPLC.
Support protein and conjugate characterization using CE-SDS, cIEF, and LC-MS peptide mapping.
Investigate and troubleshoot chromatographic performance, sample preparation, and instrument issues.
Analyze and interpret data, identify trends, and present findings to the team.