Roman Sommer

Team Lead & Project Manager | Drug Development & Scale‑Up | Building High‑Performing Teams

Netherlands

About

I work in process chemistry at the interface of science, development, and manufacturing, where I help turn complex chemistry into practical, scalable solutions. I enjoy tackling challenging problems together, from route scouting to scale‑up and transfer into GMP production, and pushing innovation along the way. I’m passionate about working with people and supporting their growth, both professionally and personally. I value open and honest communication and believe it creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing and doing their best work.

Experience

  • Symeres (8 yrs 10 mos)
    • Team Leader & Project Manager – Process Chemistry / PR&D / Innovation
      Jul 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 1 mo

      -Lead a portfolio of cross‑functional PR&D programs, guiding complex small‑molecule projects from early development through late‑stage activities. -Act as scientific and technical integrator across Chemistry, Analytics, Manufacturing, and external partners, enabling aligned decision‑making and execution. -Set development strategy, priorities, and resource allocation, balancing scientific, operational, and business objectives. -Lead and developed multidisciplinary teams across process chemistry, flow chemistry, and biocatalysis, fostering a culture of quality and collaboration. -Enabled successful scale‑up, manufacturing readiness, and technology transfer under tight timelines. -Improved operational efficiency through standardized workflows and reporting practices.

    • Project Leader (PR&D)
      Jan 2022 - Jun 2022 · 6 mos

    • Senior Scientist II (PR&D)
      Sep 2021 - Jan 2022 · 5 mos

  • Postdoctoral Researcher at Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland
    Oct 2015 - Sep 2017 · 2 yrs

  • Visiting Researcher at CNRS
    Mar 2014 - Apr 2014 · 2 mos

  • Research Associate at Vifor Pharma
    Sep 2010 - Dec 2010 · 4 mos