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Principal Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Research Scientist Experience Level: Professional Job Type: Regular Location: Richardson, TX, US, 75080 Requisition ID: 10147 Qorvo (Nasdaq: QRVO) supplies innovative semiconductor ...

Principal Research Scientist - Risk We are seeking an experienced research scientist to lead Neara's internal research group in topics of system resilience, reliability, and policy. In this role, you ...

Principal Research Scientist

Bedford, NH · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated Principal Research Scientist with a passion for developing solutions for problems in the field of cybersecurity across a variety of domains.

Principal Research Scientist

Bedford, NH · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated Principal Research Scientist with a passion for developing solutions for problems in the field of cybersecurity across a variety of domains.

Principal Research Scientist

Bedford, NH · On-site

$176K - $282K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton Labs is seeking a self-motivated Principal Research Scientist with a passion for developing solutions for problems in the field of cybersecurity across a variety of domains.

Principal Research Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $165K/yr

Northeastern University has established a Principal Research Scientist position dealing with cutting-edge research in the theoretical and applied aspects of resilient artificial intelligence (AI)

Qorvo is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to serve as a principal investigator and key individual contributor leading the development of next-generation wafer-level interconnects (BEOL), wafer ...

Qorvo is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to serve as a principal investigator and key individual contributor leading the development of next-generation wafer-level interconnects (BEOL), wafer ...

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Principal Research Scientist information

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How much do principal research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal research scientist in the United States is $144,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $169,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal research scientist?

Principal Research Scientists are highly experienced professionals who lead advanced research projects within organizations, often in academia, industry, or government settings. They are responsible for designing research strategies, managing teams, securing funding, publishing findings, and ensuring that projects align with organizational goals. Principal Research Scientists typically have a PhD or equivalent experience and are recognized experts in their field. Their work often influences the direction of research and development in their area of expertise.

How does a principal research scientist typically contribute to cross-functional projects within an organization?

Principal Research Scientists often play a crucial role in cross-functional projects by providing expert guidance on research methodologies and ensuring scientific rigor. They collaborate closely with teams from engineering, product development, and data analysis to translate research findings into actionable solutions. Their leadership helps bridge gaps between different disciplines, fostering innovation and aligning project outcomes with organizational goals. Strong communication and project management skills are essential, as they frequently mentor junior scientists and coordinate efforts across departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Research Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific field, a PhD or equivalent research experience, and a strong publication record. Familiarity with specialized research tools, laboratory management systems, and relevant data analysis software is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for driving innovation and leading multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for advancing research objectives, securing funding, and maintaining scientific rigor in high-impact projects.

What is the difference between Principal Research Scientist vs Senior Research Scientist?

AspectPrincipal Research ScientistSenior Research Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), extensive research experienceMaster's or PhD, significant research background
Work EnvironmentLeading research projects, strategic planningConducting experiments, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, pharmaceuticalsUniversities, corporate R&D labs

The Principal Research Scientist typically holds a higher level of responsibility, leading research initiatives and setting strategic directions. The Senior Research Scientist focuses more on executing research projects and contributing technical expertise. Both roles require advanced degrees and research experience, but the Principal role involves broader leadership and vision.

How much does a principal research scientist make in the US?

A principal research scientist in the US typically earns an average salary between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on industry, experience, and location. Senior-level roles often include additional benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and research funding, with advanced degrees and specialized skills influencing compensation levels.
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Cities with the most Principal Research Scientist job openings:

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Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Research Scientist jobs?

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What states have the most Principal Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Research Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Principal Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,009 per year, or $69.2 per hour.

Senior Principal Research Scientist / Principal Research Scientist II

AbbVie

North Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


AbbVie rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Description

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Job Description

Description:

AbbVie is a global, research-based biopharmaceutical company formed in 2013, following separation from Abbott. AbbVie combines the focus and passion of a leading-edge biotech with the expertise and capabilities of a long-established pharmaceutical leader, to develop and market advanced therapies that address some of the world's most complex and serious diseases.  AbbVie employs approximately 50,000 people worldwide and markets medicines in more than 170 countries. AbbVie Process Chemistry is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scientist to conduct process research and development of drug conjugates, peptides, and small molecules from pre-clinical through early clinical phases.

Key Responsibilities:

  • The candidate will lead the setting and implementation of the Process Chemistry strategy for projects across therapeutic modalities and will serve as a cross-functional expert influencing overall strategy across Synthetic Molecules CMC R&D.
  • The candidate will lead project teams in process development and characterization across modalities.
    • Lead the development and characterize processes in the laboratory and translate them to scalable processes.
    • Proactively advise and share knowledge and expert opinions with subordinates, peers, and senior leadership. Mentor staff in troubleshooting strategic and experimental issues.
    • Author and review key regulatory documents, laboratory data, technical memos and reports.
  • The position involves multi-disciplinary interactions with organic chemists, analytical chemists, engineers, drug product development scientists, asset strategy leadership, and program management.
  • The candidate will identify and nurture ideas for continuous improvement activities and initiatives across Synthetic Molecules CMC R&D.
  • The candidate will be responsible for setting project strategies, defining project responsibilities and timelines, developing control strategies, providing leadership in a matrixed team setting and developing robust processes for cGMP manufacturing.
Qualifications

*This position can be hired at the Sr. Principal Research Scientist or Principal Research Scientist II level dependent upon years of experience and education*

  • Sr. Principal Research Scientist: Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD Degree in Organic Chemistry with typically 18+ (BS), 16+ (MS) or 10+ (PhD) years of experience. Candidates with less experience may be considered for other opportunities.
  • Principal Research Scientist II: Bachelor's Degree in Science related field with 16 years of related work; Master's Degree Science or PharmD with 14 years of related work; PhD in Science or related field with 8 years of related work experience
  • Experience managing and developing scientific leaders and teams in CMC is required.
  • Experience with siRNA, antibody drug- and oligonucleotide-conjugates (AOCs), and high-potent compounds is preferred.
  • Proven scientific leadership; strong interpersonal and communication skills for facilitating collaborations and a demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional process development teams and represent program strategy to allied functions and leadership.
  • The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of modern organic chemistry, mechanistic theory, control strategy development (including mutagenic impurity and nitrosamine controls), and regulatory starting material strategies.
  • An understanding of global regulatory expectations and experience with authoring development reports and regulatory filings is highly desirable.

Key AbbVie Competencies:

Interacts well with diverse groups within function and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external collaborators to enable higher performance. 

  • Learns fast, grasps the "essence" and can change course quickly where indicated.
  • Raises the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
  • Creates a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
  • Embraces the ideas of others, nurtures innovation and manages innovation to reality.

Level and compensation will be commensurate with experience.

Significant Work Activities: Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8-hour day)

Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time

Job Type: Experienced

Schedule: Full-time

Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future. 

  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

  • This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs. 

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html


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About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013