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Principal Scientist Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Principal Scientist

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$143.20 - $265.90/hr

The Position The Opportunity SE7 As a Principal Scientist in Small Molecule Biomarkers (Metabolomics & Lipidomics) within our Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) team, you will play a key ...

Principal Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$225 - $275/hr

  • Retirement

Our Opportunity We are seeking an experienced consultant for a Principal Scientist position in our Polymers & Chemistry Practice. This position is open across all U.S. office locations. In this role ...

The Opportunity SE7 As a Principal Scientist in Small Molecule Biomarkers (Metabolomics & Lipidomics) within our Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) team, you will play a key role in ...

Principal Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$143.20 - $265.90/hr

The Position The Opportunity SE7 As a Principal Scientist in Small Molecule Biomarkers (Metabolomics & Lipidomics) within our Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) team, you will play a key ...

Senior Scientist-Principal Scientist

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist / Principal Scientist to lead functional assay development and execution in support of our therapeutic antibody discovery and characterization ...

As a Principal Scientist you will be at the forefront of this exciting research. The work combines platform development, assay research and development, workflow design (manual as well as automated ...

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Showing results 1-20

Principal Scientist information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$76.5K

$160.9K

$212.9K

How much do principal scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal scientist in San Ramon, CA is $160,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,300.00 and $188,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Principal Scientist jobs in San Ramon, CA?

For Principal Scientist jobs in San Ramon, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Principal Scientist jobs?

Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Principal Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal Scientist job openings in San Ramon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,933 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Principal/Sr. Principal Scientist - Development

Genentech

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$141.50 - $321.49/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Genentech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

The Position

The Department of Translational Safety at Genentech provides scientific leadership and plays an active role in the process of drug development from the discovery phase through marketed products. We are seeking a Principal/Sr Principal Scientist in Toxicology to support drug development. This role will involve working in a collaborative team environment as part of the comprehensive safety assessment of Genentech therapeutics by providing toxicology representation to programs.

The successful candidate for Principal/Sr Principal Scientist will provide scientific leadership and play an active role in the process of drug development, with a strong emphasis on Genentech’s oncology and cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolism development project portfolio, which includes small molecules, immunomodulatory biotherapeutics, bi‑specific antibodies, ADCs, cancer vaccines and cellular therapeutics.

Working in a collaborative team environment, the Principal/Sr Principal Scientist leads the safety assessment of Genentech therapeutics by creating a best‑evidence synthesis of existing knowledge and comprehensive investigations of toxicologic activity, strategic planning, and designing/implementing/supervising toxicology studies in support of program advancement.

The Opportunity
  • Interdisciplinary project team membership
  • Scientific leadership in the design and implementation of safety assessment strategies to support program advancement and decision-making
  • Preparation and review of regulatory documentation
  • Preparation and review of study reports and manuscripts
  • Representation of Genentech in meetings with regulatory authorities
  • Investigations into mechanisms of toxicity
  • Proactive management of potential safety liabilities and communication of impact to teams and governance committees
  • Experience with cross‑functional teams and capability to build productive cross‑functional internal and external collaborations are desired
  • Mentoring of toxicologists and as needed, team members, and lead or provide support to inter‑ and intra‑departmental initiatives
Who You Are Principal Scientist
  • PhD and post‑doctorate or equivalent experience in toxicology or a relevant field along with a minimum of 3+ years relevant experience in the pharmaceutical/biotechnology/CRO industry related to toxicology.
  • Extensive experience in drug development and interaction with global regulatory authorities are required.
  • Experience in oncology and cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolism therapy areas leveraging different therapeutic modalities such as small molecules, degraders, and ADCs is highly desirable.
  • Evidence of a consistent and extensive record of impact internally and externally.
  • The successful candidate must also demonstrate strong decision‑making, complex problem solving, critical data analysis and interpretation, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to build productive cross‑functional collaborations both within and external to Genentech.
  • Board certification in toxicology is desirable.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $141,500 - $262,900.

Senior Principal Scientist
  • PhD and post‑doctorate or equivalent experience in toxicology or a relevant field along with a minimum of 8+ years relevant experience in the pharmaceutical/biotechnology/CRO industry related to toxicology.
  • Extensive experience in drug development and interaction with global regulatory authorities are required.
  • Experience in oncology and cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolism therapy areas leveraging different therapeutic modalities such as small molecules, degraders, and ADCs is highly desirable.
  • Evidence of a consistent and extensive record of impact internally and externally.
  • The successful candidate must also demonstrate strong decision‑making, complex problem solving, critical data analysis and interpretation, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to build productive cross‑functional collaborations both within and external to Genentech.
  • Board certification in toxicology is desirable.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $171,110 - $321,490.

Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed in the company policy.

Benefits

Benefits are available in accordance with company policy.

Locations

This position is based in San Francisco. This role is primarily onsite. Relocation benefits are available.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of protected veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing the accommodations for applicants form.

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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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