Senior Scientist at Hovione
Hovione · Lisbon, · Onsite
- Senior
- Office in Lisbon
Hovione is an independent family owned international group of companies. From the beginning, we have set ourselves above and apart through our innovative technological and productive capabilities, reaching a top spot in the world market as an integrated Contract Development and Manufacturing Company dedicated to helping Pharmaceutical Customers bring new and off-patent drugs to market.
Our people are the main asset for our continued success. Reaching over 1950 team members, from 36 different nationalities, that are located across Asia, Europe and North America (Portugal, US, Macao, Ireland, China, Hong Kong, Japan, India, and Switzerland), including 4 production sites.
Working at Hovione means reaching for innovation and excellence in everything we do: for our clients, our partners and, above all, our patients. That is why we are In it for life.
You will be responsible to::About the Role
As a Senior Scientist, you will be responsible for the design, development, scale-up, and validation of drug substance processes, with a strong emphasis on process modeling (mechanistic, data-driven, CFD, reactor modeling). You will work closely with cross-functional teams—including synthetic chemists, process engineers, and manufacturing—to ensure smooth tech transfer, compliance, and innovation throughout the product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and support model-based process development for drug substance manufacturing.
Design and execute lab- and pilot-scale experiments, analyze results, and guide scale-up and technology transfer strategies.
Collaborate with internal partners (e.g., synthetic chemists, manufacturing, safety teams) to develop robust, scalable processes that meet quality, HSE, and cGMP standards.
Apply mechanistic, data-driven, and AI/ML-based models to predict scale-up performance, reduce experimentation, and improve process understanding.
Support the evaluation of scientific and resource needs for projects to ensure timely delivery and customer satisfaction.
Define development and validation strategies and oversee the scientific execution within your group.
Drive implementation of new technologies, tools, and methodologies within the area.
Review and approve technical documentation, ensuring accuracy, regulatory compliance, and readiness for audits or submission.
Actively contribute to intellectual property development and innovation within your area of expertise.
Provide technical consultancy and support troubleshooting during escalations or complex investigations.
Coordinate and mentor team members, supporting their integration, training, performance management, and professional growth.
Ensure budget oversight, efficient resource allocation, and alignment with strategic objectives.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement, scientific excellence, and HSE/GMP compliance across all activities.
Master’s (required) or PhD (preferred) in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Pharmaceutical Technology, or a related field.
2–5 years of relevant experience in process development within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or CDMO industry.
Hands-on experience with tech transfer, scale-up, and pilot/manufacturing operations.
Technical Skills:
Solid foundation in chemical engineering, organic chemistry, chemical kinetics, and mass/heat transfer.
Proven expertise in process modeling including:
Mechanistic models
Data-driven/machine learning approaches
Multivariate data analysis (MVDA)
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Reactor design and scale-up modeling
Proficiency in data analysis and modeling tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Aspen Plus, DynoChem, etc.)
Experience with process equipment principles and unit operations (reaction, work-up, isolation, drying, etc.)
Soft Skills:
Strong communication and technical writing abilities.
Effective project and time management.
Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional or matrix environments.
High level of initiative, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Languages:
Fluency in English (verbal and written) is mandatory.
Hovione is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer
Inclusion and diversity are key to us. At Hovione, that means a work environment where differences are valued, and everyone is treated with fairness and respect. We want all our team members worldwide to feel supported, respected, and have the opportunity to achieve their full potential, regardless of their age, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation or ethnicity.
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