R&D Scientist III

Work Schedule

First Shift (Days)

Environmental Conditions

Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Contribute to the development of high-quality assay reagents by designing and executing synthetic routes for haptens, adducts, and related intermediates. Apply your hands-on expertise in organic synthesis, bioconjugation, and analytical chemistry to deliver consistent, high-performance materials that support diagnostic innovation.

Location: Fremont, CA.

Relocation assistance is NOT provided. 

A day in the Life:

• Perform synthesis, purification, and characterization of haptens, adducts, and conjugates.
• Execute protein conjugation reactions and validate product integrity through analytical techniques (HPLC, MS, UV, etc.).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transfer materials and ensure reagent quality.
• Troubleshoot and optimize synthetic or conjugation workflows for improved yield and consistency.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and support continuous process improvement.

Keys to Success:

• Strong foundation in synthetic organic chemistry and bioconjugation principles.
• Hands-on approach with attention to experimental detail and reproducibility.
• Effective collaboration and communication within multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver reliable results on time.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and scientific integrity.

Education

• MS in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with 4+ years of relevant laboratory experience, or
• PhD with 2–3 years of experience in organic synthesis, bioconjugation, or related discipline.

Experience

• Practical experience in organic synthesis, purification, and characterization of small molecules or conjugates.
• Exposure to protein conjugation and analytical characterization techniques preferred.
• Experience with immunoassay or diagnostic reagent development is an advantage.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Proficiency in synthetic design, purification (chromatography), and analytical tools (LC-MS, HPLC, UV-Vis, NMR).
• Demonstrated proficiency and extensive laboratory experience in conjugation chemistry and protein modification.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced R&D environment.
• Strong documentation and data interpretation skills, aligned with quality and safety standards.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

• Controlled Substance Handling: This role involves the handling, management, and oversight of controlled substances. The role will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines on controlled substances.
• Exposure to Controlled Substances: The role may be exposed to controlled substances during their duties. Proper safety protocols and protective measures will be provided and must be strictly followed.

• Safety Protocols: Ability to adhere to strict safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Background Check: Successful completion of a background check, including screening for any history related to controlled substances.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Benefits

We offer competitive remuneration, annual incentive plan bonus, healthcare, and a range of employee benefits. Thermo Fisher Scientific offers employment with an innovative, forward-thinking organization, and outstanding career and development prospects. We offer an exciting company culture that stands for integrity, intensity, involvement, and innovation!

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range estimated for this position based in California is $100,000.00–$133,300.00.

This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

• A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs

• Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement

• At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy

• Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan

• Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards