JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Senior Associate Scientist I/II, Purification Sciences to support small-molecule drug discovery. This individual will perform chromatography-based purification, with a focus on preparative LC and preparative SFC, supporting medicinal chemistry and high-throughput chemistry efforts.
The ideal candidate will have practical laboratory experience with chromatographic purification and a strong interest in developing expertise in separation science, instrumentation, and high-throughput purification workflows. Experience with instrument maintenance and troubleshooting is highly desirable. This position will be based in our San Diego Headquarters.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform routine and moderately complex small-molecule purification using preparative LC and SFC, supporting medicinal chemistry and high-throughput chemistry workflows.
- Develop and optimize purification methods, including column/mobile-phase selection, gradients, sample loading, and fraction collection.
- Operate prep LC, prep SFC, analytical LC, and LC/MS systems and perform analytical QC of purified compounds.
- Perform routine instrument maintenance and troubleshoot common chromatography, fluidics, hardware, and software issues.
- Monitor instrument performance and proactively identify issues to maintain reliable laboratory operations and minimize downtime.
- Support high-throughput and automated purification workflows, including sample submission, purification, fraction handling, compound recovery, and data reporting.
- Work closely with medicinal chemists and other scientists to prioritize samples and deliver purified compounds with appropriate purity, recovery, and turnaround time.
- Support evaluation and implementation of new purification methods, columns, instrumentation, and workflow improvements.
- Maintain accurate experimental and instrument documentation and contribute to laboratory best practices.
QUALIFICATIONS
- B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with 3+ years of experience
- Relevant hands-on laboratory experience in chromatography and small-molecule purification; level will be determined based on experience and demonstrated technical capabilities.
- Working knowledge of chromatographic separation principles and method optimization.
- Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with preparative LC and/or preparative SFC is strongly preferred; SFC experience is highly desirable.
- Experience operating and troubleshooting chromatography instrumentation is strongly preferred.
- Experience with LC/MS-based characterization and purity assessment is desirable.
- Experience with automated or high-throughput laboratory workflows is desirable.
- Experience with Agilent, Shimadzu, SCIEX, or comparable platforms is a plus.
PAY AND BENEFITS
We offer industry leading competitive pay, company paid healthcare, flexible spending accounts, voluntary life insurance, 401K matching, and uncapped vacation to our team. We are in a brand-new state-of-the art facility in beautiful San Diego with an onsite gym, dining, and easy access to great places to live and play.
