Synthetic Organic Chemist

Synthetic Organic Chemist 

At Onyx Scientific, we are a trusted partner to a cross section of academic, biotech and pharmaceutical clients across the world, providing cutting-edge services from discovery through to commercial manufacture. As a fast-growing Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO), we are committed to scientific excellence, innovation, and delivering solutions that make a real difference to patients’ lives.

We are now seeking a talented Synthetic Organic Chemist to join our world-class R&D team. This is a unique opportunity for a PhD-qualified chemist to contribute to complex and challenging projects, while helping to mentor and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The successful candidate will be expected to work safely within the guidelines set by the company. They will carry out experimental work in the laboratory to synthesize small quantities of product using standard laboratory equipment and larger quantities in equipment up to 50L scale.

The Role

The work involves practical organic synthesis on scales ranging from milligrams to kilos and a list of the main duties are outlined below:

• Design and develop innovative and scalable synthetic routes for complex organic molecules.
• Execute multi-step synthesis, purification, and characterisation using state-of-the-art techniques (NMR, HPLC, LC-MS, etc.).
• Collaborate with colleagues across process chemistry, analytical science, and manufacturing to ensure seamless project delivery from lab to 50L scale.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, sharing your expertise and supporting their professional development.
• Contribute to client discussions, technical reports, and project presentations.
• Ensure all work meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure standard operating procedures are followed at all times.
• Demonstrate good safety awareness, completion of COSHH assessments.
• Carry out projects including process research and development and synthesis of final products.
• Interpret a wide range of analytical data.

About You

• We are looking for a driven scientist who thrives in a fast-paced, client-focused environment. You will have:
• A PhD in Organic Chemistry (essential).
• A proven track record in complex synthetic organic chemistry, demonstrated through publications, patents, or industrial achievements.
• Ideally, experience within a CDMO, CRO, pharmaceutical, or fine chemicals environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the creativity to overcome synthetic challenges.
• Ideally, some experience of mentoring, supervising, or leading others.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work on projects with minimal supervision.
• Experience of Development Chemistry would be an advantage.
• Strong time management for self and peers, including a good understanding of the schedule, commercial direction and departmental goals.
• Work effectively as part of a team, showing resourcefulness and reliability
• Enthusiastic, flexible, conscientious and proactive in approach

What We Offer

• Opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development.
• The chance to work on diverse, high-impact client projects.
• A supportive, collaborative culture where your contributions are valued and recognised.

Benefits

• Company events
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free on-site parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Life insurance
• Private medical insurance