Research Scientist
Iambic Therapeutics · San Diego, CA
Design, optimize and run high-throughput chemistry experiments to drive compound library campaigns in the Discovery Chemistry team. Work cross-functionally with chemistry, biology, AI/ML and software teams, using the HTE platform to accelerate drug discovery programs.
What you'll do
- Design and execute parallel synthesis to generate large compound libraries
- Develop synthetic methods compatible with automation and HTE scalability
- Translate bench-scale routes into automated high-throughput processes
- Operate and maintain automated synthesis equipment and chemistry toolkit
- Analyze library data and communicate results to project teams
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with 0-5 years industry experience, or MS with 8+ years industry experience
- Strong command of modern organic synthetic methods
- Hands-on experience with High Throughput Chemistry and/or Parallel Synthesis
- Experience with lab automation, liquid handling robotics, and automated analytical and purification systems
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Nice to have
- Experience with Direct-to-Biology (D2B) strategies
- Familiarity with medicinal chemistry principles
- Experience mentoring interns or junior colleagues
Benefits
- Company paid healthcare
- Flexible spending accounts
- Voluntary life insurance
- 401(k) matching
- Uncapped vacation
- Onsite gym and dining
Skills
Outlined skills are listed as required.
Full original description
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Scientist to join our Discovery Chemistry team at Iambic Therapeutics in San Diego, CA. In this role, the ideal candidate will exploit their strong background in organic synthesis, catalysis, and reaction development to design, optimize, and execute high-throughput experiments to drive compound library campaigns. The successful candidate will deliver impact cross-functionally with chemistry, biology, compound management, AI/ML, and software teams across the discovery pipeline, leveraging Iambic's HTE platform to accelerate and strengthen our programs. This position will be based in our San Diego Headquarters.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design and execute parallel synthetic methods to generate large, high-quality compound libraries.
Identify, develop, and optimize novel synthetic methodologies with a focus on automation compatibility and HTE scalability.
Apply newly developed synthetic routes from traditional bench-scale chemistry to robust, high-throughput, and automated processes.
Oversee the operation, maintenance, and continuous advancement of our chemistry toolkit and automated synthesis equipment.
Analyze research outcomes and library compound data and clearly communicate results and findings to cross-functional project teams.
Ensure all laboratory work is conducted in accordance with established safety protocols and best laboratory and ELN data recording practices.
Function as a core member of an interdisciplinary scientific team (chemistry, biology, software, and automation).
Proactively identify bottlenecks, troubleshoot automated processes, and develop solutions to ensure business continuity.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with 0-5 years of industry experience or MS in Organic Chemistry with a minimum of 8 years of industry experience.
Strong command of modern organic synthetic methods.
Direct hands-on experience with High Throughput Chemistry and/or Parallel Synthesis.
Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling robotics, and automated analytical and purification systems.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative, and dynamic research environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; must be able to articulate complex scientific concepts, technical challenges, and results clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment where priorities and synthetic targets may shift rapidly based on biological data.
Strongly Preferred:
Experience with Direct-to-Biology (D2B) strategies for drug discovery.
Familiarity with the principles of medicinal chemistry.
Prior experience mentoring interns or junior colleagues.
ABOUT IAMBIC THERAPEUTICS
Iambic is a clinical-stage life-science and technology company developing novel medicines using its AI-driven discovery and development platform. Based in San Diego and founded in 2020, Iambic has assembled a world-class team that unites pioneering AI experts and experienced drug hunters. The Iambic platform has demonstrated delivery of new drug candidates to human clinical trials with unprecedented speed and across multiple target classes and mechanisms of action. Iambic is advancing a pipeline of potential best-in-class and first-in-class clinical assets, both internally and in partnership, to address urgent unmet patient need. Learn more about the Iambic team, platform, pipeline, and partnerships at iambic.ai.
MISSION & CORE VALUES
Our mission is to deliver better medicines through innovations in AI-based discovery technologies. The culture and work at Iambic Therapeutics are profoundly strengthened by the diversity of our people and our differences in background, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and life experiences. We are committed to building an inclusive environment where a diverse group of talented humans work together to discover therapeutics and create technologies.
PAY AND BENEFITS
We offer industry leading competitive pay, company paid healthcare, flexible spending accounts, voluntary life insurance, 401K matching, and uncapped vacation to our team. We are in a brand-new state-of-the art facility in beautiful San Diego with an onsite gym, dining, and easy access to great places to live and play.