BS/MS in Chemistry or related field; relevant lab experience may substitute for degree
Hands-on experience with HPLC for analyzing biologics or small molecules
Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects
Ability to read and understand technical documents and SOPs
Proficient in pipetting and general lab techniques
Must live within 30 minutes of San Carlos or be willing to relocate
Responsibilities
Develop chromatography-based analytical methods for strength and stability testing
Analyze and interpret data; communicate findings and recommendations
Oversee strength and stability analysis of various compounds
Manage multiple analytical instruments and ensure regular calibrations
Diagnose and troubleshoot assay and instrumentation issues
Assist with other chemical and biochemical assays as needed
Benefits
Unlimited PTO plus company-recognized holidays
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
$25 DoorDash credit for meals while in the office
401(k) plan with company matching
Company-paid life insurance
Stock option package
Full Job Description
Research Associate- Analytical Chemistry
About the Role
We are seeking a meticulous and dependable Research Associate. You will work directly with our fleet of HPLCs to develop and run methods indicating the potency and stability of pharmaceuticals.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, comfortable developing methods and debugging instrumentation independently, and passionate about maintaining the highest standards of laboratory compliance.
Qualifications
Required
BS/MS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related scientific discipline: relevant laboratory experience considered in lieu of degree
Hands-on experience using HPLC instruments to analyze biologics or small molecules and develop analytical methods
Independent, motivated, and highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities
Able to read and comprehend technical documentation including scientific literature, SOPs, and regulatory documents
Proficient with pipetting and general lab technique
Live within a 30 minute commute of San Carlos or willing to relocate
Preferred
A history of using Agilent HPLC instruments for chromatogram acquisition and Agilent OpenLab software for data analysis
Familiarity with USP, ISO, and/or GLP/GMP standards
Core Responsibilities
Develop chromatography-based analytical methods for strength and stability testing in accordance with USP guidelines. Write and review SOPs
Analyze and interpret data; communicate findings to the lab team and recommend best course of action
Oversee strength and stability analysis of a variety of compounds. Effectively prioritize responsibilities to maintain short and efficient turnaround times
Manage multiple analytical instruments alongside an inventory of standards and consumables. Perform regular calibrations and ensure maximal uptime.
Diagnose and troubleshoot problems in both assays and instrumentation. Document corrective and preventive actions.
Assist in other chemical and biochemical assays throughout the lab as needed
Travel & Logistics
Must be able to commute to the San Carlos, CA office on a consistent weekly schedule Monday-Friday.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive Salary: $100,000-$110,000 (commensurate with experience and market benchmarks)
Paid Time Off: Unlimited PTO, plus company-recognized holidays
Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
DoorDash Credit: $25 credit for lunch and dinner while working in the office
401(k) Plan with company matching, subject to plan terms
Company-paid life insurance
Stock option package
Ideal Candidate Profile
You are someone who:
Takes full ownership of outcomes, not just tasks
Is highly proactive and treats every sample as if patient safety depends on it
Thrives in structured, compliance-driven environments with zero tolerance for shortcuts
Has meticulous attention to detail and catches errors others might miss
Can be trusted to work independently and uphold the highest standards
Application Requirements Your cover letter (one page) should include clear examples of:
A time you demonstrated exceptional work ethic
A time you solved a difficult problem involving an HPLC or mass spec
