GPC Analytics Associate — Polymer Data & Startup Equity

Aether Bio, Inc.; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Job summary

Aether Biomachines is seeking an Analytical Research Associate to support polymer development through hands-on GPC testing. You’ll run samples, maintain instruments, and ensure high-quality, reproducible data in a fast-moving startup.

Work closely with an analytical scientist and the materials team in a lab-driven environment. This role offers growth into method development and expanded chromatography-based responsibilities, with equity available and an at-will employment stance.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience running samples on a SEC/GPC or similar LC system.
• Strong fundamentals in chromatography and laboratory best practices.
• Experience working with polymers (synthetic and/or biopolymers).
• High attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Comfort working independently while collaborating closely with others.
• Ability to recognize when data or samples are clearly problematic and speak up.
• Safe lab practices, including handling chemicals, solvents, and glassware.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and run polymer samples on GPC systems, following established methods and SOPs.
• Track method performance to ensure data quality, reproducibility, and consistency over time.
• Perform routine instrument maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting, escalating issues as needed.
• Identify clearly problematic or compromised data and communicate issues proactively.
• Collaborate closely with an analytical scientist on scheduling, priorities, and technical problem-solving.
• Support materials scientists and engineers by running analytical tests for ongoing experiments.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, maintenance, and calibrations.
• Contribute to writing or updating SOPs and best practices as the lab and team evolve.
• Over time, take on additional ownership such as consumables management, method improvements, or expanded analytical scope.

Skills

GPC/SEC systems

Chromatography basics

Polymer experience

Data quality focus

Independent work

Problem recognition

Safe lab practices

Tools

GPC calibration

Job description

Aether Biomachines is seeking an Analytical Research Associate to support polymer development through hands-on GPC testing. You’ll run samples, maintain instruments, and ensure high-quality, reproducible data in a fast-moving startup.

Work closely with an analytical scientist and the materials team in a lab-driven environment. This role offers growth into method development and expanded chromatography-based responsibilities, with equity available and an at-will employment stance.