Scientist I/II, Organic Chemistry

Lila Sciences is seeking a Scientist I/II in Organic Chemistry to join our Discovery Chemistry team in Cambridge, MA. This role focuses on developing and optimizing chemical transformations to support our platform's efforts in rapidly synthesizing small molecules and diverse chemical structures. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in synthetic chemistry and hands-on experience with high-throughput experimentation, reaction workup, and analytical characterization.

Key responsibilities include designing and executing chemical transformations relevant to Discovery Chemistry programs, emphasizing the rapid synthesis of small molecules and analog series. The scientist will apply modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques to explore structurally diverse and medicinally relevant chemical spaces efficiently. Additionally, the role involves planning and performing multi-step synthesis, reaction optimization, workup, purification, and compound characterization to support molecular discovery campaigns.

Candidates must possess a PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related discipline, along with relevant postdoctoral and/or industry experience. Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including the design and execution of multi-step synthesis and development of chemical transformations pertinent to small molecule discovery, is essential. Hands-on experience with high-throughput experimentation for reaction screening, optimization, or scope evaluation is also required.

Lila Sciences offers a collaborative and innovative work environment where scientists are encouraged to solve synthetic problems at the interface of reaction innovation, high-throughput experimentation, process efficiency, and analytical insight. This position provides an opportunity to contribute to next-generation discovery workflows beyond traditional bench chemistry, fostering professional growth and development.