Analytical Development Biotech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Junior Research Scientist – Analytical Development

Job Description

The Junior Research Scientist on the Analytical Development team advances life‐saving therapies by developing and optimizing small molecule drug testing methods for pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners worldwide. This role focuses on designing and executing analytical strategies, developing and validating methods under cGMP, and transferring robust methods to Quality Control to support the release of drug substance batches. The position offers the opportunity to not only perform hands-on analytical chemistry, but also to lead project-based development and method transfer activities that directly impact patient outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Develop analytical testing strategies based on customer technical packages and process development synthetic routes to support small molecule drug programs.
• Design, develop, and optimize new analytical methods for small molecule drug substances and intermediates, with a focus on in-process control (IPC) methods in the pharmaceutical or life sciences industry.
• Assess customer-supplied analytical methods for validation readiness and identify any gaps or improvements needed to meet cGMP and regulatory expectations.
• Execute method validation protocols to support cGMP release of drug substance batches, ensuring methods are accurate, precise, robust, and suitable for their intended use.
• Perform analytical testing using HPLC, UPLC, UV/Vis, pH measurement, spectrophotometry, FTIR, GC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, titrations, and other analytical techniques as required.
• Conduct method transfers from Analytical Development to the Quality Control group, including planning, execution, documentation, and troubleshooting as needed.
• Analyze and interpret complex analytical data, draw sound scientific conclusions, and provide clear recommendations based on data review.
• Author technical reports, validation protocols, method development reports, and related documentation, and review analytical data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Provide analytical technical assistance to Quality Control and Process Chemistry teams, including troubleshooting analytical issues and supporting process development decisions.
• Collaborate closely with customers and internal functional areas to advance projects through development, ensuring timelines and project objectives are met.
• Execute analytical project timelines, monitor progress, and communicate status updates to relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure all work complies with safety, quality, and regulatory policies and applicable government regulations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of analytical methods, laboratory practices, and documentation standards within the Analytical Development team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with ICP-MS for elemental analysis in support of small molecule development programs.
• Familiarity with Chromeleon Chromatography Data Software for method setup, data acquisition, integration, and reporting.
• Experience with advanced characterization of small molecules using a range of analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot analytical methods and instrumentation issues efficiently.
• Experience working in a cGMP or other regulated laboratory environment.
• Interest in project-based chemistry, including leading development and transfer activities for analytical methods.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and timelines simultaneously.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of data integrity, quality, and scientific rigor.

Work Environment

This role is based in an Analytical Development laboratory that focuses on advancing life-saving drugs by developing small molecule therapies for emerging pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide. The position typically follows a first-shift schedule, with standard hours of either 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Work is conducted under cGMP and other applicable regulatory guidelines, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and compliance. The environment supports scientific ownership of projects, offering opportunities to lead analytical development initiatives and method transfers while collaborating in a close-knit, project-driven team setting. Appropriate laboratory attire and adherence to standard lab safety practices are required.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Morton Grove, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $39.00 - $43.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Morton Grove,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 27, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.