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Principal Scientist Jobs in Quebec (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an experienced, strategically minded Principal Scientist to join our expanding Non-Clinical Safety team. Based in Vancouver, Montreal, or California, you will be responsible for ...

$150 - $200/hr

About this role The Principal Quantum Scientist will define the scientific identity and long‑range research program of Q-Block Computing Research -- setting the direction of frontier experimental ...

$150 - $200/hr

About this role The Principal Quantum Scientist will define the scientific identity and long‑range research program of Q-Block Computing Research -- setting the direction of frontier experimental ...

Notify the Principal Scientist and/or the Scientific Director of scientist or technical problems as soon as they become apparent. Key Elements We are looking for the following minimum qualifications ...

For validations and sample analysis the Scientist can be assigned as Bioanalytical Principal Investigator and is the first point of contact for PM and/or clients for laboratory services and will ...

The Role As a Principal Software Developer within our AI R&D team, you will be responsible for ... What You'll Need Bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, computer engineering ...

Principal Consultant (Bilingual French-English)As a Principal Consultant, your main responsibility ... A university or college degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or other ...

Principal Engineer - Search AI

Montreal, QC · On-site

CA$131K - CA$191K/yr

We are looking for a Principal Engineer to own and deliver complex modules within our Search ... Strong Computer Science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, distributed systems, and data ...

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Principal Scientist information

See Quebec salary details

$69K

$130.8K

$179K

How much do principal scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal scientist in Quebec is $130,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $151,500.00 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 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 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.

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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec?

The most popular types of Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec?

For Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Scientist jobs in Quebec are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Scientist jobs in QC?

For Principal Scientist jobs in QC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Scientist job openings in Quebec as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,765 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Principal Scientist - Toxicology

AbCellera

Montreal, QC

CA$144K - CA$180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Each of us cares about someone who will need medicines. That's why our vision is to repeatedly beat the odds to deliver breakthrough medicines to patients that need them. We pursue truth and scientific rigour and have the courage to work at the edge of the unknown.

We are looking for an experienced, strategically minded Principal Scientist to join our expanding Non-Clinical Safety team. Based in Vancouver, Montreal, or California, you will be responsible for designing, planning, monitoring, and reporting of non-GLP and GLP toxicology studies and provide nonclinical safety support for early to late stage programs. 

How you might spend your days

  • Leading the planning, design, execution and interpretation of nonclinical toxicology programs in support of IND, CTA and BLA submissions, including general toxicity and reproductive and developmental toxicology studies, in alignment with global regulatory expectations and program strategy
  • Serving as the primary scientific interface with contract research organizations (CROs), providing strategic oversight during protocol development, study conduct, data interpretation, and report finalization to ensure timely, high-quality, and GLP-compliant delivery of nonclinical studies
  • Representing the Nonclinical Safety function as a core member of cross-functional discovery and development program teams, contributing toxicology expertise to inform candidate selection, risk assessment, and overall program advancement
  • Providing critical scientific assessment of toxicology data and communicating clear, actionable risk-benefit evaluations and recommendations to project teams and senior leadership, including potential implications for clinical development and regulatory strategy 
  • Authoring and reviewing nonclinical safety sections of regulatory documents (INDs, CTAs, IBs, and BLAs), and contributing as a subject matter expert to global regulatory interactions and health authority responses
  • Driving the development and evolution of integrated nonclinical safety strategies across AbCellera's therapeutic portfolio, ensuring consistency, scientific rigor, and alignment with company objectives
  • Maintaining scientific leadership by staying current with advances in toxicology science, methodologies, and evolving regulatory guidance, and proactively translating these insights into best practices for internal programs

We'd love to hear from you if

  • You bring deep expertise in GLP-compliant nonclinical toxicology, including hands-on experience with US FDA 21 CFR Part 58, and a strong working knowledge of FDA, ICH, and EMA nonclinical regulatory guidance
  • You have a proven track record of designing, overseeing, and interpreting non-GLP and GLP toxicology studies in support of discovery and development programs; experience with oncology and/or ADC programs is highly desirable
  • You hold a PhD in Toxicology or a related field, with 8+ years of relevant industry experience supporting biologics development; candidates with a MSc degree and 12+ years of directly applicable experience will also be considered
  • You demonstrate the ability to lead scientific discussions and influence decision-making within highly matrixed, cross-functional teams through clear, confident, and effective communication
  • You possess excellent scientific writing skills, with experience authoring and reviewing toxicology reports and regulatory submission documents
  • You exhibit strong organizational and prioritization skills, enabling effective management of multiple programs and timelines in a fast-paced environment
  • You apply sound scientific judgment and critical problem-solving skills to assess complex datasets, identify risks, and propose strategic solutions
  • You thrive in a dynamic, evolving environment, demonstrating flexibility, resilience, and a proactive approach to change
  • You hold DABT accreditation (highly desirable, but not required)

What we offer

AbCellera's hiring range for this role is CAD $144,000 - $180,000 annually, commensurate with your education and job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to base salary, we offer equity, annual bonus dependent on team and company performance, and a 6% (non-match) RRSP contribution. 

You will have a CAD $1,500 annual Active Lifestyle Allowance, annual vacation, professional development opportunities, and comprehensive health benefits. Scientific and technical mentorship is a priority. And you'll find a strong sense of community and connections across AbCellera through our work, clubs, and socials.

About AbCellera

Creating medicines is the most important work we can do. 

We are a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing antibody-based medicines in the areas of endocrinology, women's health, immunology, and oncology. We have built a platform for advancing antibody drug programs from target to clinic, and we are using it to build our internal pipeline.
Today, our pipeline includes two drug candidates in clinical development, two preclinical development candidates (DCs) in Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling activities, and more than 20 active discovery programs across multiple modalities and indications.

We believe that when tenacious people share a vision and work together, they can truly have a positive impact. That's why we hire for character and intelligence, not just for CVs or experience. 

We look for people with drive and energy. People we trust. People who need to know their days are being well spent. That their work really matters. In the end, our success will be measured by the impact of our medicines.

To apply

Please submit your application through our website and refer to Job ID 23346 in your cover letter. We receive a large volume of applications and are only able to contact those who are selected for an interview. All communication from our Talent Discovery team will come from an @abcellera.com email address.