R&D Scientist Organic Chemistry

Who we are

Akkodis is a global digital engineering and smart industry leader, bringing together talent and technology to engineer a smarter future. With more than 50,000 experts worldwide and over 1,000 in Belgium, we support companies across industries in innovation, digital transformation and R&D; from consulting and talent solutions to end-to-end project delivery. Driven by passion, expertise and impact, we make incredible happen.

In Belgium, we operate through 7 dedicated practices, where our consultants receive the technical guidance, coaching and support they need to grow and fully unlock their potential. We believe in empowering our talent by providing the right expertise, knowledge-sharing and development opportunities to help them thrive. Our practices: Product & System Development, Validation & Verification, Manufacturing & Operations, Cloud Infrastructures & Security, Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence, Digital & Software and Wireless & Connectivity.

Akkodis is part of the Adecco Group. You can find more information on our website :

Mission

For an international pharmaceutical client based in Beerse, Belgium, Adecco is seeking a Scientist 3, Research and Development (Organic Chemistry) to join the Advanced Material Characterization and Investigations (AMCI) group within the Analytical Development (AD) department. Within AMCI, the Advanced Molecular Analysis (AMA) team operates as a set of analytical centers of excellence in structure elucidation by high-resolution mass spectrometry and NMR, organic and inorganic trace analysis, polymer characterization, and ADC, oligonucleotide and peptide analytics. In this laboratory-based position, you will focus on the quantification of nitrosamines, including N-nitrosamines, in various matrices and pharmaceutical products, using advanced techniques such as LC-HRMS. You will contribute to analytical method development, root cause investigations, and collaboration across the Discovery, Product Development & Supply (DPDS) organization and the broader commercial product portfolio.

Your responsibilities

• Support method development and feasibility studies for analytical methods, from innovative sample preparations to advanced chromatographic separations and detection, for quantification of trace analysis impurities according to regulatory guidelines and company standards.
• Support comprehensive root cause investigations related to nitrosamines, with a strong focus on chemical reactivity, spanning projects from early stages through late development within the R&D portfolio.
• Develop and implement innovative analytical test methods for nitrosamines, including N-nitrosamines, using LC-HRMS and other relevant high-resolution mass spectrometry techniques.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and internal specialists, demonstrating the ability to learn rapidly and explore innovative analytical and investigative techniques.
• Initiate and lead partnerships with universities and other research institutions to expand the external innovation network and strengthen analytical capabilities and expertise.
• Maintain a safe laboratory work environment in compliance with all applicable environmental, health, regulatory requirements, GMP guidelines, and internal safety regulations.

What skills do you bring to the table?

• PhD degree in organic chemistry or a related field, or a master’s degree in a related science with a minimum of six years of relevant experience.
• Work-related experience in pharmaceutical R&D is considered an asset and supports understanding of development pipelines and commercial product portfolios.
• Proven expertise in nitrosamines chemistry is a clear asset, particularly for work involving nitrosamines and N-nitrosamines in pharmaceutical products.
• Demonstrated experience in mass spectrometry, including technologies such as Triple Quadrupole and High-Resolution MS, is a significant advantage for this position.
• Familiarity with developing chromatographic methods is preferred, including experience optimizing separations for trace analysis impurities and complex matrices.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks, such as ICH, EMA, FDA, and GMP guidelines, especially regarding analytical validation requirements, is an advantage.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken, enabling effective scientific discussions, documentation, and collaboration in a global environment.
• Fast learner with scientific curiosity, self-steering and proactive mindset, and creative problem-solving approach in a research and development setting.
• Open-minded team player able to work together as one team in a global environment while remaining efficient, flexible, dynamic, and results and performance driven.
• Strong sense of urgency and ability to prioritize tasks while maintaining high quality and compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

Our recruitment process

Stage 1: Initial telephone interview (15 min) with @Bo, Talent Acquisition Specialist.

Step 2: Interview (60 min) with a Business Manager.

Step 3: Interview (60 min) with the client.

Interested? Apply now or send an e-mail to bo.schoonjans@akkodis.com so we can get in touch!