Principal Scientist, Site Based, Princeton, NJ

Location: On-site, Princeton, NJ (USA) · Reports to: Group Leader, Protein Sciences

About Us

At Evotec, we believe that curiosity is the spark that drives innovation and success. As a forward-thinking team, we thrive on challenging the status quo, learning from each other, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We're on a mission to create a place where curiosity isn't just encouraged—it’s celebrated.

About the Role

We’re looking for a passionate and curious Principal Scientist to join our team. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to drive impactful projects, collaborate with bright minds, and explore uncharted territories. As a Principal Scientist at Evotec, you'll have the freedom to ask the hard questions, think outside the box, and find creative solutions that push us forward. It’s a role where your curiosity will fuel both your personal growth and the success of the team.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the scientific lead for protein reagent support across key account early drug discovery programs, managing multiple projects and standalone deliverables simultaneously while ensuring high-quality outcomes and customer satisfaction.
• Partner with project stakeholders to design experimental strategies, review technical documentation, analyze complex datasets, and present findings to clients.
• Ensure rigorous scientific evaluation and data quality prior to reagent release to internal and external customers.
• Deliver expert scientific guidance on experimental design, technology selection, and problem-solving to maximize project success and efficiency.
• Provide scientific leadership across project portfolios and capability areas, mentoring and coaching Protein Sciences team members while fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Develop and implement innovative experimental approaches and novel technologies to address challenging scientific objectives, advance platform capabilities, and accelerate project delivery.
• Lead the creation, implementation, and continuous improvement of standalone scientific services and customer-facing deliverables, ensuring alignment with market needs and organizational goals.
• Contribute to customer engagement activities, including the preparation of scientific proposals, project scoping, and evaluation of new business opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Collaborate with Business Development teams to support growth initiatives, strengthen client relationships, and expand the project opportunity pipeline.
• Represent Evotec at scientific and industry conferences, workshops, and networking events, enhancing the company's visibility, reputation, and thought leadership within the biologics and drug discovery communities.
• Drive scientific excellence through presentations, publications, and external collaborations, contributing to the advancement of the field while strengthening both personal and organizational credibility.
• Act as a recognized subject matter expert, influencing scientific strategy, technology adoption, and best practices across the organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Sciences) with at least 6 years of industry experience in drug discovery; or Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least 8 years industry experience demonstrating increasing responsibility and impact in drug discovery.
• Strong technical knowledge of Protein Biochemistry with a proven ability to design and deliver protein reagents within agreed timelines and budget, meeting agreed quality criteria.
• Experience leading protein reagent projects and building trusted partnerships with Key Accounts.
• Track record of successful problem-solving, high-quality science, and influencing stakeholders, particularly in a drug project context.
• Strong understanding of the drug discovery process and how Protein Reagents impact it.
• Experience of scientific development and research work, ideally with publications in a relevant scientific field.

Benefits

• Growth Opportunities: Continuous learning and development through professional courses, mentorship, and new projects.
• Flexible Work Environment: Flexible work options to help balance professional and personal life (this is a site-based role).
• Inclusive Culture: Commitment to building a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is valued and curiosity is encouraged.
• Innovative Projects: Work on groundbreaking initiatives and cutting-edge technology.
• A Place for Big Ideas: Culture that encourages thinking outside the box and values employee ideas.

Pay

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be $140,000–$150,000. This is a salaried exempt role. Base salary offered may vary depending on the individual’s skills, experience, and competitive market value. Additional total rewards include discretionary annual bonus, comprehensive benefits (Medical, Dental, and Vision), short-term and long-term disability, company-paid basic life insurance, 401(k) company match, generous paid time off and paid holidays, wellness and transportation benefits.