Synthetic Organic Chemist
At Onyx Scientific, we partner with leading academic institutions, biotech innovators and global pharmaceutical companies to drive projects from early discovery through to commercial manufacturing. As a rapidly growing Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO), we’re known for our scientific excellence, collaborative culture, and commitment to delivering solutions that genuinely improve patients’ lives.
We’re now looking for a Synthetic Organic Chemist to join our high-performing R&D team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex, challenging and varied chemistry projects—making a real impact while developing your expertise within a world-class environment.
In this role, you will work safely within company guidelines while conducting hands-on experimental work. You’ll synthesise small-scale materials using standard laboratory equipment and support scale-up activities with equipment up to 50L, contributing directly to the success of client projects.
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.
- 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 BSc, MSc or PhD in Organic Chemistry.
- A good knowledge of the fundamentals of organics chemistry (standard transformations, named reactions etc)
- A proven track record in complex synthetic organic chemistry, demonstrated through publications, patents, or industrial achievements.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the creativity to overcome synthetic challenges.
- Good communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work on projects with supervision.
- Strong time management for self 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
- Experience of Development Chemistry would be an advantage, preferably within a CDMO, CRO, pharmaceutical, or fine chemicals environment.
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