Innovation Scientist (Postdoc, Chemist) – Solid-State Development 100% (m/w/d)

CordenPharma is a global contract development and manufacturing organization that supplies active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, drug products and packaging for pharma and biotech clients. With roughly 3,500 staff across Europe, Asia and the United States, the company operates six technology platforms, including small‑molecule and solid‑state development. The role is a post‑doctoral Innovation Scientist in the Solid‑State Development team, based in Liestal, Switzerland, on a twelve‑month contract that may be extended. The scientist will independently design, run and assess experiments that explore solid‑state forms of drug substances. Core duties include planning case studies, performing literature reviews, and proposing novel research topics together with commercial and internal partners. Laboratory work covers polymorph, salt, co‑crystal, hydrate and solvate screening, as well as crystallisation and precipitation studies from screening to laboratory scale. The candidate will apply analytical tools such as X‑ray powder diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic vapour sorption, Raman, FT‑IR, microscopy and particle‑size techniques, interpret the data, and draw scientifically sound conclusions. Findings are communicated through technical reports, presentations, and contributions to scientific papers, conference talks and white papers, while collaborating closely with experts in process development, analytical development and manufacturing science. Essential qualifications include a doctorate in a relevant discipline such as physical chemistry, solid‑state chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, materials science, chemical engineering or organic chemistry. The applicant must possess a solid grasp of crystallisation mechanisms, thermodynamics, phase behaviour and solid‑state characteristics of pharmaceutical compounds, and have hands‑on experience with at least one of the key solid‑state analytical methods listed. Critical evaluation of scientific literature, strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, and the capacity to work both independently and within multidisciplinary teams are required. Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory; German language skills are considered a plus. The position offers a flexible working‑hour model, short and direct communication lines across departments, and a supportive environment that grants a high level of responsibility. The role sits within a dynamic CDMO setting, providing exposure to cutting‑edge research and the chance to influence new service offerings in solid‑state development. Experience in pharmaceutical development, process chemistry or organic chemistry is advantageous but not compulsory. What the role asks for: - PhD in Physical Chemistry, Solid‑State Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry or related field - Deep knowledge of crystallization, thermodynamics, phase behaviour and solid‑state properties - Hands‑on experience with XRPD, DSC, TGA, DVS, Raman or FTIR spectroscopy - Proven ability to critically assess scientific literature and translate findings - Strong analytical thinking and problem‑solving capabilities - Ability to work independently while collaborating in multidisciplinary teams - Excellent written and spoken English communication skills - German language proficiency (advantageous) - Experience in pharmaceutical development, process chemistry or organic chemistry (advantageous)