Scientist, Analytics
Zymochem
About ZymoChem
ZymoChem is breakthrough science for a fossil-free future. We accelerate the transition to a real-zero economy by developing bio-based materials for everyday products. Our platform is powered by proprietary carbon conserving (C2) microbes that convert renewable feedstocks into high-value materials while radically minimizing CO2 loss during the production phase.
ZymoChem recently closed a $21 million Series A round of fundraising to support the launch of our first high-performance material and to advance our first partnered product to commercial scale. In addition to this funding from premier domestic & international venture capital firms, we are also supported by existing revenues from commercial partnerships with world-leading companies and funding from multiple government awards, including a 2023 $4MM grant from the Department of Energy.
With a plan to double our team in 2024-25, we seek candidates who are motivated by science & innovation and have a passion to push the boundaries of materials performance. We are collaborative, multidisciplinary, and relentlessly committed to creating a chemicals, materials, and products industry in tune with the 21st century.
Our Mission: To catalyze a real-zero economy with drop-in, bio-based solutions.
Our Vision: To live in a world in which the goods we depend on every day are bio-manufactured from 100% renewable materials and designed for a sustainable economy - without compromise.
Our Values: Lead with Compassion, Aspire Collectively, Evolve Continuously, Innovate with Impact, Scale Sustainably
Position Summary
ZymoChem is looking for a motivated Analytical Chemistry Scientist II or Sr. Scientist to join our Analytics R&D team for the fast-paced, goal-driven development of the company’s novel carbon conserving metabolic pathway biotechnology. The primary responsibility of this position will be LCMS method development for quantitative and qualitative analysis of small molecules. Efforts will involve leading multiple workflows of sample analysis, including method development and validation, sample preparation from complex biological matrices and downstream processing, data management, SOP writing, technical transfer, and instrument maintenance. This position has a great opportunity to work in collaboration with cross-functional R&D teams on enzyme development, strain engineering, fermentation, and bioprocessing efforts while also acquiring hands-on expertise in creating and optimizing analytical workflows using various analytical equipment. This position will report to the Senior Director of Analytics.
Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and validate state-of-the-art LCMS quantitative and qualitative analysis of targeted and untargeted small molecules in biological matrices.
- Develop and optimize analytical workflows for sample analysis including sample preparation, analytical separations, automated data analysis, data interpretation and reporting.
- Primary responsibility is LCMS based analysis, and you will also be involved in all aspects of additional analytical instrumentation and methodologies available within the group.
- Execute sample processing and analysis using QQQ and QTOF LCMS, as well as HPLC, to support multiple internal and external projects.
- Process and analyze large data sets, summarize results, and present in the team and project meetings
- Collaborate cross-functionally with other R&D teams to establish appropriate analytical methods and deliver high-quality data & analyses toward strain characterization and bioprocess development.
- Support and advise analytical workflows associated with various R&D projects within the company.
- Research and summarizes relevant scientific literature to support work, contribute to the optimization of projects, and explore new technologies and strategies for improvement.
- Presents and conveys complex problems, results, and ideas in group and project meetings or with other internal and external stakeholders.
- May mentor or train junior and new team members.
Qualifications
- PhD or MS in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry or related discipline with focus on analytical chemistry.
- MS degree with 5+ years or PhD with 2+ years of industrial/startup experience in analytical separations and LCMS analysis
- Extensive hands-on experience with QQQ and HRAM LCMS method development and validation for quantitative and qualitative analysis of small molecules.
- Identification of unknown metabolites and confirmation of known unknowns.
- GCMS expertise is a plus.
- Proficiency with troubleshooting and maintenance of LCMS instrumentation and software.
- Experience with sample preparation from complex biological samples, including extraction, derivatization, and purification.
- Expert knowledge of Agilent MassHunter and OpenLab software.
- Proven experience with targeted and untargeted metabolomics and data analysis.
- Demonstrated success working both individually and cross-disciplinary to balance multiple independent experiments and projects. Previous mentoring experience is a plus.
- Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills among many stakeholders and levels in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong computer skills including MS Office, Google Suite, and familiarity with Zoom, Visio, and Slack preferred.
- Ability to safely move up to 25 lbs between locations
Culture and Benefits
ZymoChem offers full-time employees a competitive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company culture that’s collaborative, multidisciplinary, and committed to a big vision for positively impacting the world. We seek candidates who are motivated by our mission and are equally passionate toward pushing the boundaries to build a sustainable future. Located in the vibrant East Bay area of San Francisco, our headquarters are housed at Gate 510, a state-of-the-facility with many in-house and nearby amenities.
Full-time opportunities at ZymoChem come with:
- Competitive salary range of $110,000 to $160,000 depending on experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock options, 401(k) retirement plan (includes a corporate match), medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage, and life and long-term disability insurance.
- Additional benefits include FSA, commuter, and supplemental life insurance.
- Flexible time off policy with 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) per year and 10 paid company holidays per year.
- Relocation assistance may be agreed upon as well.
If this opportunity sounds exciting and aligns with your career aspirations, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume/CV and a cover letter through our website job posting.
Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. ZymoChem may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa immediately or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.