Principal Research Scientist II, Lipid Chemistry

Company: AbbVie
Location: San Diego
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Company Description About AbbVie AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com . Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram , X and YouTube. Job Description We seek a Principal Scientist II, Lipid Chemistry to join an experienced, fast-paced and collaborative team focused on developing lipid nanoparticle delivered mRNA medicine. This position will primarily lead the design and synthesis of novel lipids including but not limited to ionizable lipids and other proprietary delivery chemistries. You will bridge the gap between breakthrough molecular design and robust intellectual property strategy promoting AbbVies mRNA-based targeted lipid nanoparticles (tLNPs) pipeline. In this role, you will be responsible for leading projects focused on lipid design to support internal platform and pipeline programs. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of lipid chemistry, LNP formulation, analytical characterization and functional screening in vitro and in vivo. Responsibilities & Duties: Lead and optimize novel lipid designs and chemistries from diverse structural families for LNP platform technology development Design multistep routes of synthesis and purification for scalability and purity in keeping with project goals and timelines Independently lead research efforts through deep technical understanding and work collaboratively within a cross-functional product development team to drive design, functional screening, development and production of novel tLNP formulations for targeted, extra hepatic delivery of nucleic acid payloads. Review scientific literature, patents, scientific abstracts to stay up to date on latest in the field. Provide scientific expertise in the organization with special emphasis on lipid nanoparticle-based drug targeting delivery systems for nucleic acids Represent department in cross-functional platforms, pipeline and development teams. Draft technical reports and present findings to cross-functional teams in writing and verbal presentations as needed. Effectively communicate complex technical topics to collaborators and management. Qualifications PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Pharmaceutical Sciences with 8 years related experience in the pharmaceutical industry for which you have been responsible for independent contributions in the design and development of novel lipids and other delivery chemistries Deep technical prowess and demonstrated ability with respect to successful design, synthetic routes, purification strategies, analytical characterization (e.g. NMHR, LC/MS) for lipids and LNP formulations. Demonstrated ability to establish new capabilities and innovate strategies in pursuit of scientific excellence. Strong proficiency authoring and reviewing technical reports. Additional Information Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state orlocal law: The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Companybelieves ingood faith it will pay for this role at the timeof this posting based on the job grade for this position.Individualcompensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, andwemay ultimatelypay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in thefuture. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick),medical/dental/visioninsurance and 401(k) to eligibleemployees. This job is eligible to participate in our short-term incentiveprograms. Note: No amount of payis considered to bewages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, anddeterminable.The amount and availability of any bonus,commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form ofcompensation and benefitsthat are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole andabsolutediscretion unless and until paid andmay be modified at the Companys sole and absolute discretion, consistent withapplicable law. AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more: https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html

Keywords: AbbVie, Fountain Valley , Principal Research Scientist II, Lipid Chemistry, Healthcare , San Diego, California