At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to design and develop innovative synthetic routes for complex organic molecules.
- Company: Onyx Scientific partners with global clients, delivering cutting-edge services in biotech and pharmaceuticals.
- Benefits: Enjoy career progression, health programmes, company events, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Work in a supportive culture that values your contributions and offers diverse projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while mentoring the next generation of scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in Organic Chemistry and experience in synthetic organic chemistry are essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a Synthetic Organic Chemist looking to join a high-performing R&D team?
We have an exciting opportunity for you 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.
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.
The Role
The work involves practical organic synthesis on scales ranging from milligrams to kilos and 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‑management 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.
Synthetic Organic Chemist in Sunderland employer: Onyx Scientific
At Onyx Scientific, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for our Synthetic Organic Chemists. Our commitment to professional development is evident through opportunities for career progression, mentorship, and involvement in high-impact projects that truly make a difference in the pharmaceutical industry. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a range of benefits including health and wellbeing programmes, free on-site parking, and a collaborative culture where every contribution is valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Synthetic Organic Chemist in Sunderland
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
Engage with local chemistry societies and attend their events. Whether it's a conference or a seminar, these gatherings can be gold mines for networking and spotting job openings at companies like Onyx Scientific. Plus, being face-to-face with industry professionals can leave a lasting impression!
✨Utilise Online Platforms for Chemistry Jobs
Don’t just rely on mainstream job boards. Sites like Chemistry World and Chemjobs are specifically geared for our field. Set up alerts for new openings at places like Onyx Scientific to be the first to apply!
✨Showcase Your Research & Projects
Create a professional online portfolio that highlights your chemistry projects or research. This could be a blog or a simple website that showcases your skills and experience. When you apply to Onyx Scientific, you want them to see what you can do beyond the CV.
✨Connect With Recruiters Specialised in Chemistry
Reach out to recruitment agencies that focus on the chemistry sector. They often have inside tracks on job openings at companies like Onyx Scientific and can provide valuable advice tailored to full-time roles in our industry. Don't be shy to ask for insights!
We think you need these skills to ace Synthetic Organic Chemist in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at Onyx Scientific. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Onyx Scientific
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to Onyx Scientific and the Synthetic Organic Chemist role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
