Research Associate Discovery Chemistry

Tailored Management; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly Pay

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Job summary

Genentech is seeking a Research Associate in Discovery Chemistry to support small-molecule drug discovery by purifying compounds, peptides, and macrocycles using preparative HPLC. You will develop and refine purification methods, analyze chromatographic data, and troubleshoot instruments in a fast-paced team setting.

The role emphasizes collaboration with chemists and cross-functional groups, employing HPLC, LC-MS, and automated purification systems to advance project goals and publish findings

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong theoretical understanding of organic and analytical chemistry.
• Hands‑on experience with chromatography techniques, including: Reverse‑Phase (RP) Chromatography, Normal‑Phase (NP) Chromatography, Ion‑Exchange Chromatography (IEX), Solid‑Phase Extraction (SPE).
• Experience with analytical techniques such as Mass Spectrometry (MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR).
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced research environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform purification of small molecules, short peptides, macrocycles, and other compounds using preparative HPLC techniques.
• Develop, optimize, and implement HPLC purification methods to support drug discovery projects.
• Analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental and chromatographic data.
• Troubleshoot HPLC instruments, purification methods, and related laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with chemists and cross-functional research teams to support ongoing projects.
• Present experimental results, findings, and project updates during group meetings.
• Utilize advanced laboratory technologies, including HPLC, LC-MS, and automated purification systems.
• Stay current with emerging purification methods, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Contribute to team objectives through innovation, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Detail-oriented

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry

Tools

RP Chromatography

NP Chromatography

IEX Chromatography

SPE

Job description

Job Title: Research Associate – Discovery Chemistry
Location: 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080
Pay Rate: $27.25 – $35.38/hour + Benefits
Contract Duration: 12 Months (Potential for Extension)
Work Schedule: Full-Time, 40 Hours per Week
Benefits: Weekly Pay, Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join the Discovery Chemistry Group at Genentech. This role will focus on supporting small-molecule drug discovery through the purification of small molecules, short peptides, macrocycles, and other chemical compounds, primarily using preparative High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The successful candidate will work closely with chemists and research teams to develop and optimize HPLC methods, analyze and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot instrument and method-related issues, and present findings during team meetings. This position offers an opportunity to work with advanced laboratory technologies, including HPLC, LC-MS, and automated purification equipment, while contributing to innovative drug discovery research. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and demonstrate strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving abilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform purification of small molecules, short peptides, macrocycles, and other compounds using preparative HPLC techniques.
• Develop, optimize, and implement HPLC purification methods to support drug discovery projects.
• Analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental and chromatographic data.
• Troubleshoot HPLC instruments, purification methods, and related laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with chemists and cross-functional research teams to support ongoing projects.
• Present experimental results, findings, and project updates during group meetings.
• Utilize advanced laboratory technologies, including HPLC, LC-MS, and automated purification systems.
• Stay current with emerging purification methods, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Contribute to team objectives through innovation, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong theoretical understanding of organic and analytical chemistry.
• Hands‑on experience with chromatography techniques, including:
  • Reverse‑Phase (RP) Chromatography
  • Normal‑Phase (NP) Chromatography
  • Ion‑Exchange Chromatography (IEX)
  • Solid‑Phase Extraction (SPE)
• Experience with analytical techniques such as Mass Spectrometry (MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR).
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced research environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.