Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist, Chemical Synthesis

Lilasciences

Cambridge, United States
Base: $80,000 - $118,000 usd; bonus/equity: bonus ...
On-site
High-throughput experiment execution
Organic and inorganic small molecule synthesis
Method development and optimization
Lila Sciences is seeking a Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist to join their high-throughput autonomous chemistry team in Cambridge, focusing on organic and inorganic synthesis, advanced characterization, and laboratory automation. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in chemical synthesis and a strong understanding of analytical techniques, with an opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment that emphasizes AI-driven scientific discovery

Job Summary

  • This is a hands-on role at the intersection of organic and inorganic synthesis, advanced characterization, and laboratory automation.
  • You will design and execute high-throughput experiments, synthesize small molecules, and perform rigorous downstream analysis while working side-by-side with senior scientists to translate ambitious product goals into scalable experimental workflows that directly drive our company’s growth.
  • This position offers first-hand exposure to automated chemistry platforms, with real ownership over experiments that inform company strategy and scientific direction.

Matching Summary

Match Score: 85

Lila Sciences is seeking a Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist to join their high-throughput autonomous chemistry team in Cambridge, focusing on organic and inorganic synthesis, advanced characterization, and laboratory automation. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in chemical synthesis and a strong understanding of analytical techniques, with an opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment that emphasizes AI-driven scientific discovery.

Salary

Base: $80,000 - $118,000 USD; Bonus/Equity: Bonus potential and generous early equity; Benefits: Not specified

Skills & Requirements

Must-have

  • High-throughput experiment execution
  • Organic and inorganic small molecule synthesis
  • Method development and optimization
  • Analytical data interpretation
  • Retrosynthetic planning
  • Inert-atmosphere techniques
  • PAT tools for reaction monitoring
  • Automation and AI-driven platforms
  • Collaboration with engineers and ML scientists
  • Digital record keeping and EHS adherence

Nice-to-have

  • Experience with automated platforms
  • Authored peer-reviewed publications
  • Handling air/moisture/light sensitive compounds

Key Requirements

  • M.S. in Chemistry or related discipline with 2+ years of experience OR B.S. + 5 years
  • Hands-on experience in synthesis, purification, and analysis
  • Proficiency with analytical techniques (TLC, HPLC, LCMS, NMR, IR)
  • Proficiency in SciFinder, Reaxys, Chemdraw
  • Basic proficiency in Python or scripting languages

Work Rights

Not specified

Tailored Resume

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