Research Associate III / Associate Scientist – Chemistry

Planet Pharma; Brisbane (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma is seeking a talented chemist to join the Discovery Chemistry team and contribute to the design and synthesis of DNA-encoded libraries (DELs). This hands-on role bridges chemistry, biology, and automation to shape our DEL-based lead discovery platform.

The ideal candidate holds a B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry with 2–5 years of industrial experience, and has a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry and DEL synthesis.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry.
• 2–5 years of industrial experience (title determined by experience).
• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Hands-on laboratory experience synthesizing DNA encoded libraries.
• Familiar with the overall DNA-Encoded Library Technology workflow operations.
• Experience analyzing and purifying DNA-conjugates using LCMS/HPLC.

Responsibilities

• Design and validate novel DEL library builds.
• Develop and bring in new DNA-compatible chemical transformations that can widen the DEL chemical space.
• Construct DEL libraries to support the in-house library production efforts.
• Work with external partners to support our DEL synthesis and hit follow up strategies.
• Engage in cross‑functional team discussions that support DEL screening, data analysis, machine learning and hit‑optimization.
• Contribute to platform automation and technology development efforts.
• Present results, document workflows, and contribute to scientific and strategic planning within the Discovery Chemistry organization.

Skills

DEL synthesis

Organic synthesis

Laboratory techniques

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry

Tools

LCMS

HPLC

Job description

Research Associate III / Associate Scientist – Chemistry
Position

We are seeking a talented and motivated chemist to join our Discovery Chemistry team and contribute to the design and synthesis of DNA-encoded libraries (DELs). This hands‑on position offers the opportunity to shape the company DEL-based lead discovery platform, working at the interface of chemistry, biology, and automation.

Responsibilities:

• Design and validate novel DEL library builds.
• Develop and bring in new DNA-compatible chemical transformations that can widen the DEL chemical space.
• Construct DEL libraries to support the in-house library production efforts.
• Work with external partners to support our DEL synthesis and hit follow up strategies.
• Engage in cross‑functional team discussions that support DEL screening, data analysis, machine learning and hit‑optimization.
• Contribute to platform automation and technology development efforts.
• Present results, document workflows, and contribute to scientific and strategic planning within the Discovery Chemistry organization.

Requirements:

• B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry. 2-5 years of industrial experience (title determined by experience).
• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience synthesizing DNA encoded libraries.
• Familiar with the overall DNA-Encoded Library Technology workflow operations.
• Experience analyzing and purifying DNA-conjugates using common analytical tools (LCMS/HPLC).