Chemist jobs in Raleigh

​A life sciences chemist is a professional who specializes in the field of chemistry as it relates to life sciences, such as biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and medicine. They apply their knowledge of chemistry to understand and solve problems related to biological systems, molecules, and processes.

Here are some key tasks and responsibilities of a life sciences chemist:

1. Research and Development: Life sciences chemists often work in research and development settings, where they investigate and develop new chemical compounds, drugs, or medical treatments. They design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret results to contribute to scientific advancements.

2. Drug Discovery and Development: Life sciences chemists play a crucial role in drug discovery and development. They collaborate with biologists, pharmacologists, and other researchers to identify and synthesize new compounds that have potential therapeutic effects. They test these compounds for their biological activity, assess their safety and efficacy, and optimize their chemical properties.

3. Analysis and Characterization: Life sciences chemists use various analytical techniques and instruments to analyze and characterize biological samples, such as proteins, DNA, RNA, and metabolites. They employ methods like spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and molecular imaging to identify and quantify molecules of interest.

4. Chemical Synthesis: Life sciences chemists are skilled in organic and medicinal chemistry, allowing them to synthesize complex molecules and compounds. They design and develop synthetic routes for the production of target molecules and optimize reaction conditions to maximize yield and purity.

5. Quality Control and Assurance: In industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology, life sciences chemists ensure the quality, purity, and safety of products by conducting quality control tests and implementing quality assurance procedures. They verify the chemical composition, stability, and compliance of products with regulatory standards.

6. Collaboration and Communication: Life sciences chemists often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including biologists, physicians, engineers, and statisticians. They communicate their findings and research outcomes through scientific papers, presentations, and reports, fostering effective collaboration and knowledge sharing. The work of a life sciences chemist involves applying chemical principles and techniques to understand biological systems, develop new drugs, analyze biomolecules, and contribute to advancements in medicine and healthcare.

​Raleigh, North Carolina has emerged as a fast-growing hub for the life sciences industry:

• Part of the Research Triangle region along with Durham and Chapel Hill, home to Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, and NC State - major research universities.

• Numerous biotech companies spawned from university research located in the Triangle, as well as offices for large pharmas like Biogen, Bayer, Merck.

• Raleigh specifically has over 250 life sciences companies with more in nearby Research Triangle Park. Key presence in biopharmaceuticals.

• Home to contract research organizations like IQVIA providing clinical/research services.

• Strong talent pipeline from the universities and presence of companies creates opportunities.

• North Carolina offers tax incentives, grants, and initiatives aimed at biotech growth. The Biotech Center accelerates industry development.

• Lower costs of living and real estate compared to legacy hubs like Boston/San Francisco.

• Still growing and emerging compared to established biotech hubs but has very positive momentum.

Raleigh has become a magnet for biotech in North Carolina, demonstrating fast growth that aligns with the broader Research Triangle's strengths in life sciences research and commercialization.