**Senior Scientist – Analytical Chemistry, Purification** *Location: San Diego, CA* --- ### Company Overview 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. --- ### Role Overview We seek an experienced analytical chemist to own, develop, and run Satomic’s chromatography‑based purification fleet (primary technique: Supercritical Fluid Chromatography – SFC; supporting technique: LC) using mass spectrometry for detection and fraction collection. The role is hands‑on, lab‑based, and focused on high‑throughput, automation‑friendly purification methods. **Key Responsibilities** - Operate and maintain the SFC and reverse‑phase LC purification fleet. - Develop, optimize, and standardize high‑throughput, mass‑directed purification methods and workflows. - Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot instruments, and partner with vendors. - Collaborate with software/automation teams to integrate purification data flow. - Design and author SOPs, maintenance programs, and training materials. - Manage solvents, waste, and consumables for the fleet. - Contribute to capital equipment decisions and future capability expansion. --- ### Expected Outcomes | Timeline | Goals | |----------|-------| | **30 days** | - Complete onboarding (policies, safety, lab ops).
- Achieve proficiency on SFC and LC instruments.
- Map current purification workflow and identify top 3 bottlenecks. | | **90 days** | - Sustain ≥50 samples/instrument/day on one preparative SFC and one preparative LC system.
- Develop a standardized method set covering ≥80 % of small‑molecule samples.
- Author SOPs for operation, fraction collection, and maintenance.
- Integrate purification data flow with analytical software. | | **1 year** | - Reach ~96 samples/instrument/day across all 6 preparative systems with ≥90 % uptime.
- Deploy an automated purification workflow (queue management, automated analysis, data handoff).
- Reduce average turnaround time vs. 90‑day baseline.
- Establish a robust maintenance & consumables program. | | **5 years** | - Lead next‑generation purification capability expansion (new instruments, modalities, deeper automation).
- Train and mentor junior staff to become independent fleet operators.
- Contribute to platform capacity, reliability, and technology innovation. | --- ### What You Will Own - Day‑to‑day operation of SFC and LC purification fleet. - Development of generic, automation‑friendly purification methods. - Preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of SFC, LC, and LC/MS systems. - Workflow improvements and integration with software platforms. - Training materials and mentorship for new lab staff. --- ### Qualifications - **Education & Experience**: - Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or related field **+ 4 years** industry experience - **or** M.S. **+ 6 years** industry experience - **or** B.S. **+ 10 years** industry experience - **Technical Expertise**: - Hands‑on experience with chromatography‑based purification of organic small molecules, especially SFC and high‑throughput preparative LC/SFC. - Mass‑directed purification experience preferred. - Proficient in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting LC, LC/MS, and SFC/MS hardware (pumps, autosamplers, detectors, ESI sources, fraction collectors). - Familiarity with Waters SFC instrumentation/software and Agilent LC/MS systems a plus. - Experience with purification informatics/automation tools (Analytical Studio, Virscidian, OpenLab, MassLynx, Pipeline Pilot, KNIME, etc.). - **Soft Skills**: - Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment. --- ### Compensation - **Base Salary**: $140,000 – $160,000 (range reflects base pay only). - **Equity**: Meaningful ownership stake. - **Benefits**: Competitive package typical of early‑stage biotech. Salary is tailored to experience and impact; final offers are negotiated individually. --- ### Interview Process 1. **Technical Screen** – 15‑minute discussion on hands‑on purification experience (focus on SFC & high‑throughput methods). 2. **Phone Call** – 15‑minute overview of Satomic and the role, plus discussion of career goals. 3. **Core Interviews** – Three 45‑minute back‑to‑back interviews with team members covering experience and fit. 4. **Final Interview** – 45‑minute presentation of relevant past work, followed by a 45‑minute case‑study discussion (provided a week in advance). --- ### Diversity & Inclusion Satomic is committed to building a diverse, inclusive team. We value humility, humanity, ingenuity, and diverse perspectives, believing they strengthen our science and impact. --- **Apply now** to join Satomic and help accelerate the future of chemistry and drug discovery.

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