Principal Research Scientist, Analytical Chemistry (Biotechnology)

Location: South San Francisco, California; onsite four days per week

Salary: $167,000–$206,000 per year

Company

Precision medicine oncology company developing targeted therapies for molecularly defined solid tumors through small-molecule drug discovery, structural biology, bioinformatics, and translational biomarkers.

What you will do

• Oversee small-molecule analytical chemistry across the discovery portfolio.
• Manage and execute compound purification, including HPLC and chiral SFC separations, structural elucidation, physicochemical testing, and stability studies.
• Develop, validate, troubleshoot, and ensure the fitness-for-purpose of analytical methods.
• Manage laboratory analytical equipment installation and maintenance.
• Review and select vendors and oversee analytical work performed by external CROs.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry and cross-functional teams, mentor junior scientists, and help build the analytical department.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in analytical chemistry or a related discipline.
• At least five years of drug discovery experience in cross-functional environments.
• Strong expertise in small-molecule purification, including HPLC and SFC, physicochemical analysis, analytical method development and validation, and CRO management.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex analytical problems, manage multiple priorities, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, collaboration, supervision, and mentoring skills.

Nice to have

• Experience with small-molecule structural elucidation techniques.
• Experience hiring and developing analytical chemistry teams.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative, inclusive, data-driven environment focused on precision oncology.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, with premiums fully paid for employees and 90% paid for dependents.
• 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, wellness programs, and potential merit increases.
• Eligibility for discretionary short-term incentives and stock option awards.