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Polymer Chemist / Scientist I

Foster City, CA

We’re a well-funded start-up. You’ll get a chance to wear many hats, be a part of a growing team, and have the potential for exciting financial and career growth.

Here’s what sets us apart. We’ve set our sights on some of the biggest challenges facing biology today. We’re amassing a world class team of engineers, scientists, team builders and problem solvers to tackle these challenges heads-on. We’re passionate about developing the next generation technologies that will unravel the complexities of biology.

This is a unique opportunity to build, be part of an exciting start-up and be surrounded by good humans who are super capable, humble and down-to- earth.

The Scientist 1 (reporting to the Principal Polymer Chemist) will design and execute polymer synthesis and characterization studies to support the development and commercialization of novel materials. This role involves developing new polymer formulations, optimizing synthetic routes, and advancing understanding of structure–property relationships. The scientist will collaborate across the R&D organization to translate laboratory discoveries into scalable materials and products. 

Essential Duties include but are not limited to the following: 

  • Design and execute polymer synthesis experiments to develop new materials or improve existing formulations.
  • Develop and optimize synthetic routes, reaction conditions, and purification processes to achieve targeted polymer architectures and properties.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to polymer synthesis.
  • Conduct detailed characterization of polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, rheology, and microscopy.
  • Analyze experimental results, interpret structure–property relationships, and propose next steps based on data-driven conclusions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support scale-up and ensure reproducibility and quality of polymer production.
  • Participate in defining material specifications and testing protocols aligned with application requirements.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings and recommendations.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of relevant polymer chemistry, materials science, and emerging trends in the field.
  • Contribute to intellectual property development and innovation initiatives. 
  • Document and analyze experimental data accurately and thoroughly and communicate results within and across teams.
  • Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment. 
  • Ability to lift up to 20 lbs for approximately 10% of typical working day.  
  • Ability to work in front of a computer screen and/or perform typing for approximately 90% of a typical working day. 
  • Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height. 
  • Ability to comply with personal protective equipment requirements and work in a cleanroom environment. 
  • Ability to travel up to 5% of working time away from work location, may include overnight/weekend travel at times. 
  • Ability to work outside core hours, including evenings and weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines and/or address urgent experimental needs.  

Minimum Qualifications: 

  • Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with 0- 2 years of experience.
  • Strong foundation in synthetic polymer chemistry and physical properties of polymers.
  • Demonstrated experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (e.g., GPC, NMR, rheology, DSC, FTIR).
  • Proven ability to independently design and analyze experiments.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong collaborative skills and ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience in synthesizing or characterizing biocompatible polymers or biopolymers.
  • Experience in biological evaluation of materials.  
  • Experience with scale-up of polymer synthesis reactions.
  • Experience with small molecule synthesis. 

The estimated base salary range for this position is $99,000 - $148,000/year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

What you can expect from us:

You’ll feel the energy when you walk in our door – we work hard, we have fun and we have ambitious plans to grow. Cellanome offers a comprehensive employment package that includes a competitive salary, generous stock options, great individual, and family health plans, a 401(k) and flexibility to balance work and life.

We embrace and celebrate the diversity of our employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

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