Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist, Chemical Synthesis
Lila Sciences is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist to join our high-throughput autonomous chemistry team. This hands-on role operates at the intersection of organic and inorganic synthesis, advanced characterization, and laboratory automation. The successful candidate will design and execute high-throughput experiments, synthesize small molecules, and perform rigorous downstream analysis, collaborating closely with senior scientists to translate ambitious product goals into scalable experimental workflows that directly drive the company's growth.
Key responsibilities include independently executing experiments to synthesize, purify, and characterize organic and inorganic small molecules; optimizing reactions; performing method development; and interpreting analytical data to guide project decisions. The role also involves applying retrosynthetic planning to support target molecule synthesis, operating inert-atmosphere systems for sensitive compounds, utilizing process analytical technology tools to monitor reactions, and leveraging automation and AI-driven platforms to accelerate workflows. Collaboration with engineers, machine learning scientists, and stakeholders is essential to validate model-suggested conditions, analyze trends, troubleshoot issues, and communicate results effectively through reports and presentations.
Candidates should possess an M.S. in Chemistry or a related discipline with at least 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience, or a B.S. with 5 years of experience. Essential skills include proficiency in organic/inorganic synthesis, purification, chromatographic techniques, and product analysis. A strong understanding of retrosynthesis, reaction mechanisms, and method optimization workflows is required, along with proficiency in analytical techniques such as TLC, HPLC, LCMS, NMR, and IR. The ability to follow standard operating procedures, work safely with diverse chemical reagents and automated platforms, and thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary research environment is crucial. Proficiency in using scientific databases and software tools, as well as basic scripting skills for data handling, is also expected.
Lila Sciences offers competitive compensation, including bonus potential and generous early equity. The expected base salary range for this position is $80,000 to $118,000 USD. The final offer will reflect the candidate's unique background, expertise, and impact.
Lila Sciences is the world's first scientific superintelligence platform and autonomous lab for life, chemistry, and materials science. The company is pioneering a new age of boundless discovery by building capabilities to apply AI to every aspect of the scientific method. By introducing scientific superintelligence, Lila Sciences aims to solve humankind's greatest challenges, enabling scientists to bring forth solutions in human health, climate, and sustainability at an unprecedented pace and scale.