The PositionArrowhead Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivatedScientist I to join our Discovery Chemistry team in San Diego. This role will focus on the design, synthesis, purification, and characterization of peptides that support the discovery and optimization of next-generation RNAi therapeutics.
Working as part of a multidisciplinary discovery team, you will leverage your expertise in peptide chemistry to advance innovative drug discovery programs. The ideal candidate is an independent scientist with strong hands-on experience in peptide synthesis, analytical characterization, and scientific problem-solving who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.
This position is expected to be hired at the Scientist I level; however, candidates with slightly less experience who demonstrate strong technical skills and growth potential may be considered for the Associate Scientist III level.
This role is onsite 5 days a week in San Diego.
Responsibilities
- Design, execute, optimize, and troubleshoot solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) workflows using both automated and manual synthesis techniques.
- Purify and characterize peptides using chromatographic and mass spectrometry techniques, including HPLC and LC-MS.
- Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and propose next steps to support discovery programs.
- Contribute to the design and optimization of novel peptide constructs that support RNAi therapeutic development.
- Maintain accurate and well-organized experimental records using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
- Present scientific findings and participate in project team discussions.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and company policies.
- Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific literature in peptide chemistry and drug discovery.
Requirements- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- 8+ years of relevant industry laboratory experience or demonstrated scientific leadership within peptide chemistry.
- Strong background in organic chemistry and analytical chemistry.
- Hands-on experience with solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS).
- Experience operating automated peptide synthesizers.
- Proficiency in analytical characterization using HPLC, UPLC, and LC-MS.
- Excellent experimental design, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively present scientific results.
Preferred- Experience supporting peptide discovery from hit identification through lead optimization.
- Experience with high-throughput peptide synthesis or screening technologies.
- Familiarity with biophysical assays used to characterize biomolecular interactions.
- Experience working on oligonucleotide, peptide, or RNA-based therapeutic discovery programs.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively to cross-functional research teams.
California pay range
$105,000-$115,000 USD
Arrowhead provides competitive salaries and an excellent benefit package.
