Lead Scientist I

Location.

The actual location of this job is in Guangzhou, China.

We are looking for an experienced and innovative Lead Scientist I to join our R&D team in Nansha, Guangzhou. This role focuses on leading the design and execution of advanced chemical reactions and workflows, enabling high-quality data generation to support predictive modelling, optimization, and closed-loop experimentation.The candidate will play a critical role in bridging chemistry, data, and automation by developing scalable experimental strategies and integrating them into automated and digitalized laboratory environments. This position is ideal for a scientifically strong and collaborative chemist passionate about accelerating innovation through modern tools and interdisciplinary approaches.

What you will get

• An agile career and dynamic working culture.
• An inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• A variety of benefits dependent on role and location.
• The full list of our global benefits can be found here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits.

What you will do:

1. Reaction Design & Experimental Strategy

• Design and execute complex chemical reaction workflows (e.g., synthetic chemistry, biocatalysis, and process development)
• Develop efficient screening strategies to explore chemical space and optimize reaction conditions
• Translate scientific questions into structured experimental plans suitable for automation
• Drive closed-loop experimentation: hypothesis → experiment → data → next iteration

2. Process Development & Optimization

• Lead reaction optimization, including kinetics, selectivity, yield, and scalability improvement
• Apply DoE (Design of Experiments) and data-driven approaches to accelerate development cycles
• Ensure robustness and reproducibility of developed processes
• Contribute to scale-up considerations and technology transfer

3. Integration with Automation & Digital Tools

• Collaborate with robotic and automation engineers to translate chemistry workflows into automated protocols
• Provide domain expertise to guide development of automated reaction screening systems
• Ensure compatibility of experimental workflows with digital platforms and data pipelines
• Contribute to development of model-ready datasets

4. Modelling & Data-Driven Collaboration

• Work closely with Data Scientists to enable predictive modelling and optimization
• Interpret experimental data and provide insights for model refinement
• Support integration of experimental data with modelling platforms and cloud data systems
• Contribute to AI/ML-guided experimentation initiatives

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with chemists, engineers, data scientists, and platform teams
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to knowledge sharing
• Interface with global R&D teams and external partners where needed
• Drive scientific excellence and innovation culture within the team

What we are looking for:

Required:

• PhD’s degree with significant experience in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
• Strong expertise in synthetic chemistry, process chemistry, or biocatalysis workflows
• Proven track record in reaction design, optimization, and troubleshooting
• Experience with data-driven experimentation (DoE, statistical methods)
• Strong understanding of data structure, traceability, and experimental documentation
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary environments with automation and data teams

Preferred:

• Experience working with automated or high-throughput experimentation platforms
• Familiarity with digital lab systems, ELN/LIMS, or data pipelines
• Exposure to modelling, machine learning, or AI-driven chemistry workflows
• Industrial experience in pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, or advanced materials

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a forward-thinking R&D organization driving next-generation chemistry innovation
• Work at the intersection of chemistry, automation, and data science
• Collaborate with global experts in a highly interdisciplinary environment
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory infrastructure and digital platforms
• Competitive compensation and career development opportunities

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.