Research Assistant - Chemistry
Satomic - San Diego, CA
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About Satomic Satomic's mission is to close the gap from idea to molecule with faster navigation of chemical space. We are building an automated chemistry platform that integrates laboratory robotics, software, and AI to transform small-molecule synthesis and drug discovery. As an early-stage startup, we are not only building the technology but also the playbooks, partnerships, and culture that will shape a new paradigm for drug discovery and chemistry at scale. Building an enduring company requires both world-class execution and the courage to chart a course through uncertainty in these early days. Role Overview We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our chemistry team. The successful candidate will support laboratory operations, prepare and analyze chemical samples, play a key role in executing automated synthesis workflows, and maintain accurate documentation while ensuring compliance with safety standards. Expected OutcomesBy 30 days, you will have: Demonstrated operational competency in the inventory system, lab workflows, and safety procedures by completing routine lab tasks without procedural or safety errors. Completed safety and compliance training Demonstrated your ability to follow SOPs for chemical solution preparation and instrumentation usage Supported the generation of 1000 datapoints to contribute to a predictive model in collaboration with our Platform team. By 90 days, you will have: Begun running routine experiments independently across both synthetic and analytical workflows The ability to independently operate all laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and automation, including routine troubleshooting. Prepared common solvents, buffers, and chemical solutions and appropriately documented their use. Independently generated 5000 datapoints for ML model development. Demonstrated competence in maintaining chemical inventory, including ordering and registration. By 1 year, you will have: Demonstrated reliability in maintenance and basic troubleshooting of chemistry instrumentation. Become the owner of all inventory management processes, including commercial chemicals, synthetic intermediates, and consumables. Assisted in developing SOPs for new lab processes. Demonstrated strong lab citizenship for new staff. By 5 years, you will have: Become a recognized technical expert in one or more core chemistry workflows. Served as a go-to resource for troubleshooting instrumentation and training new laboratory staff. Taken increasing ownership of experimental design and execution under the guidance of senior scientists. Demonstrated leadership in laboratory culture and safety. Key ResponsibilitiesPerform routine chemistry lab tasks following established SOPs. Prepare and label chemical solutions, mobile phases, buffers, and reagents accurately Maintain chemical and consumable inventory, including ordering and restocking supplies. Assist in larger synthetic, analytical, or purification workflows under the guidance of senior staff. Collect, organize, and perform preliminary analysis of experimental data Support general lab operations, including safety inspections, chemical tracking, and waste disposal. QualificationsBS in chemistry or related field and 0-4 years of relevant work experience. Title flexible commensurate with experience. Strong organizational and documentation skills. Familiarity with standard chemistry laboratory techniques and equipment. Commitment to laboratory safety and chemical hygiene. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment. Hands-on experience with chromatography, mass spectrometry, liquid handlers, and laboratory automation preferred Prior experience preparing and handling air-sensitive or hazardous reagents. Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities in a laboratory setting. Overview of Satomic's Interview Process15-minute phone screen: the hiring manager will contact you to schedule a 10-15 minute call to give you a sense of what to expect and answer process questions. 3 x 45 minute interviews: the hiring manager will coordinate a block where you can have three 45 minute interviews back to back with different members of the Satomic team, who will ask questions about your past experience and fit for the role. 60 minute final round: candidates that are selected for the final round will be asked to present on their past work relevant to the open position (30 minutes) and discuss a representative scenario ("case study") live with the interview panel (30 minutes). The scenario will be given to the candidate prior to the final interview. Why Join Satomic? Join a team tackling frontier challenges in chemistry and the biggest bottleneck in drug discovery- an opportunity to shape not just Satomic, but the future of how molecules are discovered and made. Diversity & Inclusion We know there's a serious lack of diversity in our industry, and that needs to change. At Satomic, we're committed to helping drive that change. Our culture is built on inclusion, humility, humanity, and ingenuity- values that guide how we work with one another and how we approach the challenges of scaling science. We believe that bringing together people with diverse perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking is not just the right thing to do, but makes us stronger: we want every member of our team to feel they belong and can do the best work of their career here. Our mission is to close the gap from idea to molecule. That mission carries responsibility: the chemistry we enable can accelerate access to life-changing medicines and technologies, but it can also pose risks if used carelessly. We're not agnostic to how our platform is applied-we care deeply about ensuring it is used for good. Building a team of diverse and thoughtful voices gives us the best chance of delivering a platform that not only advances the future of chemistry and drug discovery, but does so responsibly and with lasting positive impact on our world.
Created: 2026-03-04