Innovation Scientist (Postdoc, Chemist) – Solid-State Development

We are seeking a highly motivated and scientifically curious Innovation Scientist with a strong hands-on mentality to join our Solid-State Development team at Corden Pharma Switzerland. Reporting directly to the Team Leader Solid-State Development, you will contribute to innovative research projects, experimental investigations, and scientific publications in pharmaceutical solid-state development. The position offers a unique opportunity to combine scientific excellence with practical industrial application in a dynamic CDMO environment. Independently plan, execute, and evaluate scientific case studies related to pharmaceutical solid-state development. Identify and propose innovative research topics in collaboration with internal stakeholders and commercial teams. Conduct comprehensive literature reviews and develop scientifically sound experimental strategies. Perform solid-state screening studies including polymorph, salt, co-crystal, hydrate, solvate, and crystallization investigations. Design and execute crystallization, precipitation, and solid-state development studies from screening scale to laboratory scale. Design and execute experiments to understand, control, and optimize crystallization processes and solid-state properties of pharmaceutical compounds. Apply and interpret analytical techniques such as XRPD, DSC, TGA, DVS, Raman spectroscopy, FTIR, microscopy, and particle characterization methods. Analyse and critically evaluate experimental data and draw scientifically sound conclusions. Prepare technical reports, scientific presentations, and project updates for internal and external stakeholders. Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, white papers, and other technical communications. Collaborate closely with experts from Solid-State Development, Process Development, Analytical Development, and Manufacturing Science. Support the development of innovative scientific approaches and new service offerings in solid-state development.

CordenPharma is a leading full-service Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, drug products (DP), and packaging. With around 3,500 employees worldwide, we help pharmaceutical and biotech companies manufacture medicines with the ultimate goal of improving people’s lives. Our network, spanning Europe, Asia and the US, provides flexible and specialized solutions across six technology platforms: Peptides, Lipids & Carbohydrates, Injectables, Highly Potent & Oncology, Small Molecules, and Oligonucleotides. We strive for excellence in supporting this network and are committed to delivering the highest quality products for patient well-being.

• PhD in Physical Chemistry, Solid-State Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline

• Strong understanding of crystallization processes, thermodynamics, phase behaviour, and solid-state properties of pharmaceutical compounds

• Hands-on experience with solid-state characterization techniques such as XRPD, DSC, TGA, DVS, Raman spectroscopy, FTIR, or related methods

• Ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and translate findings into practical development strategies

• Strong interest in experimental laboratory work within an industrial research environment

• Experience in pharmaceutical development, process chemistry, or organic chemistry is advantageous

• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving skills

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; German is advantageous.