1

Principal Scientist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Principal Scientist Duration: CTH (Contract to Hire) Location: Seymour, IN This position is viewed as a technical resource in process development and/or daily commercial support. A Technical Services ...

New

Principal Scientist Duration: CTH (Contract to Hire) Location: Seymour, IN This position is viewed as a technical resource in process development and/or daily commercial support. A Technical Services ...

Associate Principal Scientist

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site +1

$80K - $167K/yr

We are seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to join IQVIA Laboratories in Indiana. We hire passionate innovators who drive healthcare forward through thoughtful and inclusive collaboration. If ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Principal Scientist information

See Indiana salary details

$65.2K

$137K

$181.3K

How much do principal scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal scientist in Indiana is $137,034.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $160,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal scientist?

A principal scientist takes the lead in research and development on a project. Staff researchers turn to the principal scientist for guidance and direction. As a principal scientist, your job duties include developing the research strategies to be used on the project, directing the research of staff scientists assigned to the project, and monitoring the progress of the study. The principal scientist may also be required to report progress to management and the funding organization.

How much does a principal scientist earn?

A principal scientist typically earns between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often hold advanced degrees and have extensive expertise in their field, which can influence salary levels.

Do you need a PhD to be a principal scientist?

A PhD is often required for a principal scientist role, especially in research-intensive fields, as it demonstrates advanced expertise and research skills. However, some organizations may consider candidates with extensive industry experience and a master's degree combined with a strong track record of accomplishments. Additional skills such as leadership, project management, and technical proficiency are also important for this position.

What is the difference between Principal Scientist vs Senior Scientist?

AspectPrincipal ScientistSenior Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD or equivalent), extensive research experienceMaster's or PhD, significant research background
Work EnvironmentLeads research projects, strategic planning, cross-functional collaborationConducts experiments, data analysis, supports project goals
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, tech companiesResearch labs, R&D departments in similar industries

The main difference between a Principal Scientist and a Senior Scientist lies in their level of responsibility and scope. Principal Scientists typically lead research initiatives, set strategic directions, and have more experience, while Senior Scientists focus on executing research tasks and supporting project objectives. Both roles require advanced degrees and research expertise, but Principal Scientists hold a higher leadership and strategic role within organizations.

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

To thrive as a Principal Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific discipline, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a solid track record of research accomplishments. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and compliance with regulatory standards is typically required. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills are essential for mentoring teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies enable Principal Scientists to drive innovation, ensure scientific rigor, and deliver impactful research outcomes.

How does a principal scientist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a research organization?

Principal Scientists often serve as key liaisons between research, development, and business units. They lead project teams, facilitate knowledge sharing, and ensure scientific strategies align with organizational goals. Collaboration may involve guiding junior scientists, working with regulatory affairs, and coordinating with manufacturing or quality assurance departments to translate research findings into practical applications. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as Principal Scientists must synthesize diverse perspectives to drive projects forward.
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Scientist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Principal Scientist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Scientist jobs in IN? For Principal Scientist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Principal Scientist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,034 per year, or $65.9 per hour.

Principal Scientist, Technical Services

Astrix Inc

Seymour, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Pay Rate Low: 110000 | Pay Rate High: 150000
At this time, Astrix cannot transfer nor sponsor a work Visa for this position.
Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned pharmaceutical professional to join a well-established pharmaceutical manufacturer as a Principal Scientist, Technical Services. In this highly visible individual contributor role, you'll serve as the technical expert supporting solid oral dosage products throughout the product lifecycle, from process development and technology transfer to commercial manufacturing support and continuous process improvement.
Pay : $110k-$150k
Schedule : M-F 8a-5p
Type of Job : Direct Hire
Location : Seymour, IN: Located just one hour from both Louisville, KY and Indianapolis, IN, offering the affordability of a smaller community with convenient access to two major metropolitan areas.
Benefits Offered:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Annual bonus opportunity.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee wellness programs.
  • Employee stock program.
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities

Principal Scientist, Technical Services Daily Tasks: What you will do:
  • Lead technical support for commercial solid oral dosage products, ensuring efficient manufacturing operations and continuous process improvements.
  • Drive process development, scale-up activities, technology transfers, and process validation for new and existing products.
  • Investigate manufacturing deviations and product quality concerns by performing root cause analyses and implementing effective corrective actions.
  • Develop, review, and approve technical documentation, including validation protocols, reports, investigations, change controls, batch records, and regulatory submissions.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Validation, and R&D teams to resolve technical challenges and support product launches.
  • Analyze manufacturing data and apply statistical tools to optimize processes, improve yields, and enhance product performance.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists while serving as a subject matter expert for cross-functional project teams.
  • Support regulatory inspections, internal audits, and compliance initiatives to maintain FDA and cGMP standards.
  • Participate in project planning, prioritize multiple technical initiatives, and deliver results within established timelines.
  • Provide occasional after-hours technical support for critical manufacturing activities when needed.

Principal Scientist, Technical Services Qualifications/Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline; advanced degree (MS or PhD) preferred.
  • 15+ years of pharmaceutical manufacturing experience with a strong focus on solid oral dosage products.
  • Demonstrated expertise in process development, technology transfer, process validation, and commercial manufacturing support.
  • Strong knowledge of cGMP regulations, FDA guidelines, ICH requirements, and pharmaceutical quality systems.
  • Experience leading complex manufacturing investigations, root cause analyses, and continuous improvement initiatives.

We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!
INDBH
#LI-NM1