Associate Scientist, Preformulation Sciences (Contractor)

Vividion-Therapeutics; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 69,000; Part time

Job summary

Vividion Therapeutics, a San Diego-based biotechnology company, is seeking an Associate Scientist, Preformulation Sciences (Contractor) to support small-molecule formulation development. The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, HPLC-based analysis, and data-driven decision making.

The ideal candidate has a strong analytical chemistry background, 6+ years of industry experience, and proven independence. This temporary position includes potential extension and cross-group collaboration with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field is required.
• 6+ years in analytical chemistry or formulation development.
• Experience operating and troubleshooting HPLC systems.
• Strong lab skills: weighing, pipetting, pH, solution prep.
• Independent work style with data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and characterize preclinical formulations per protocols.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and support HPLC methods.
• Quantitatively assess formulation concentration and stability.
• Review data, investigate anomalous results, and identify root causes.
• Maintain accurate electronic notebooks and report study results.
• Coordinate formulation activities with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Critical thinking

Scientific judgment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC systems

UPLC

LC-MS

Job description

Description

*Note: this is temporary 6-month position with potential for extension. *

Company Overview:

Vividion is a next generation biotechnology company based in San Diego that is leveraging its proprietary chemical proteomics platform to conduct proteome-wide footprinting of drug-protein interactions with unprecedented breadth and precision. Our technology allows us to screen, identify and optimize novel drugs that selectively bind virtually any protein, including proteins previously considered “undruggable”. Our pipeline and emerging programs reflect a matured and productive platform capable of delivering first in class drugs utilizing novel mechanisms of action (allosteric inhibitors, protein-protein interaction inhibitors, functional activators, degraders etc.) against undruggable targets in the oncology and immunology space.

We are uniquely structured with opportunities for all scientists to contribute to both established programs as well as ongoing early target selection, screens and validation. We prize scientific excellence, creativity, team players and we are committed to continued innovation. We have worked hard to create a collaborative and dynamic work culture where your ideas and discoveries are valued and will have an impact. We are growing and there are opportunities for mentorship and career progression.

Vividion has been recognized as a Top Workplace by The San Diego Union-Tribune from 2022 to 2025.

Job Summary:

Vividion Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist, Preformulation Sciences (Contractor) to support formulation development activities for small-molecule drug discovery programs. This hands-on laboratory role is responsible for preparing and characterizing preclinical formulations, performing HPLC-based analytical testing, and conducting routine chemistry laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical chemistry expertise, including HPLC troubleshooting and method optimization, along with the scientific judgment and critical-thinking skills needed to investigate anomalous results and drive data-based decision-making. Experience with preclinical formulation development is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently prepare and characterize preclinical formulations following established protocols.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and support development of HPLC analytical methods.
• Perform quantitative analyses to evaluate formulation concentration, chemical stability, and related analytical attributes.
• Critically assess analytical and experimental data, investigate unexpected findings, and identify root causes of anomalous results.
• Perform routine laboratory operations, including accurate weighing of compounds, pH measurement, solution preparation, buffer and mobile phase preparation, and sample handling.
• Maintain complete and accurate electronic laboratory notebooks and communicate study results, progress, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Manage workload and timelines to support agreed-upon study schedules.
• Coordinate formulation delivery and activities with cross-functional teams, including pharmacology, toxicology, and other research groups.
• Support laboratory operations through inventory management, supply ordering, material shipments, and general lab organization.
• Perform additional duties as required

Education and Experience requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• 6+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, formulation development, or related fields.
• Demonstrated expertise operating and troubleshooting HPLC systems and supporting analytical method development or optimization.
• Strong laboratory skills, including accurate weighing, pipetting, solution preparation, and pH measurement.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain high-quality documentation.
• Strong scientific reasoning, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify, challenge, and interpret unexpected results.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience preparing preclinical formulations for PK, efficacy, toxicology, or related in vivo studies.
• Experience supporting small-molecule drug discovery or pharmaceutical development programs.
• Familiarity with formulation stability assessments and physicochemical characterization.
• Experience working within cross-functional research, DMPK, pharmacology, toxicology, or CMC teams.
• Knowledge of UPLC, LC-MS, or related analytical techniques.

Pay & Salary:

The hourly pay for this position ranges from $40.00 to $50.00 depending on relevant skills, competencies, experience, and education.

EEO & Employment Eligibility:

Vividion Therapeutics, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Privacy Policy:

The protection of your personal information is a commitment we take seriously. For information regarding our Privacy Policy (CA candidates) please visit https://vividion.com/publication/privacy-noticeforcalifornia-candidates/.