(Senior) Director of Chemistry

About Glyphic:

At Glyphic Biotechnologies, we plan to create the protein revolution for which scientists and researchers have been waiting. We are developing a massively parallel, single-molecule proteome sequencing platform that will transform life science discovery and usher in a new era of insights into human biology and disease. To date, we have raised >$50M from venture partners and non-dilutive grant funding to achieve our vision of next generation proteome sequencing.

What we are looking for in you

Glyphic is seeking a (Senior) Director of Chemistry to lead Glyphic’s chemistry function – designing novel reagents, driving sample-prep innovations, and building a world-class chemistry team to deliver a disruptive single molecule protein sequencing technology. This is a full-time, exempt, on-site position reporting to the Vice President of Research & Development. This is a full-time, exempt, in-person position with work conducted at our Berkeley, CA location.

What you’ll do

• Set the long-term chemistry roadmap for protein sequencing (bio/ortho/conjugations, amino acid side chain modifications, N-/C-terminal cleavage, surface chemistry, custom nucleosides, reagent development).
• Partner with biology, engineering, microfluidics/automation, and data science to ensure seamless platform integration.
• Drive intellectual property strategy, competitive landscape analysis, and participate with legal on freedom-to-operate evaluations.
• Build robust blocking, capping, and wash chemistries to minimize cross-talk and background signal on solid supports, flow cells, or microarray surfaces, ensuring high specificity and sensitivity in downstream detection assays.
• Utilize high-throughput screening and combinatorial chemistry testbeds to develop robust and reproducible protocols
• Innovate front-end chemistries for protein/peptide capture, enrichment, and derivatization. 
• Optimize lysis, digestion, and peptide stabilization protocols that preserve post-translational modifications (PTMs) and support low-input samples.
• Integrate with orthogonal proteomics (nano LC-MS, …) for validation.
• Transition discovery-phase reagents to reagent manufacturing.
• Recruit, mentor, and lead a multidisciplinary chemistry team (synthetic, analytical, biochemical, biophysical).
• Define and track OKRs, budgets, and timelines to meet aggressive startup milestones.
• Foster a collaborative, data-driven culture and integrate closely with cross-functional teams.

What you need

Required:

• PhD, organic chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or related field.
• 12+ years in reagent or assay development, including 4+ years in leadership.
• Proven expertise in protein/peptide chemistry (synthesis, purification, bioconjugation)
• Strong background in sample-prep chemistry and methods for proteomics, ideally including immunopeptidomics
• Ability to develop novel nucleic acid chemistry (new base pairing, new phosphoramidites)
• Translate prototypical organic chemistry (photochemistry, redox chemistry) into a biological environment
• Proficiency with analytical techniques: HPLC, LC-MS, fluorescence spectroscopy, NMR, etc
• Experience with Intellectual property strategy, competitive landscape analysis, freedom-to-operate evaluations
• Track record of translating discovery-phase chemistry into scalable, manufacturing-ready or commercial reagents
• Prior startup or early-stage company experience.
• Visionary and hands-on leader who can balance strategic planning with bench-level problem solving.

Nice to have:

• Familiarity with single-molecule or next-generation sequencing chemistries and assays
• Knowledge of photochemistry, peptide synthesis, amino acid blocking strategies, orthogonal labeling systems.
• Experience with automation and/or microfluidic reagent delivery systems
• History of patent filings and IP portfolio development.

We’re looking for teammates with:

• Excellent interpersonal skills – capable of building strong relationships and communicating effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• High emotional and analytical intelligence – able to navigate complex team dynamics, partnerships, and challenges with creativity and logic.
• Resourceful adaptability – operates with urgency, remains flexible in evolving environments, and thrives in ambiguity.
• Collaborative spirit – enjoys working across disciplines and explaining complex concepts to diverse audiences.

What you can expect from this role

Work environment:

• Collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued; and bold, innovative thinking is encouraged
• Direct impact on product development and company direction
• Access to cutting-edge technology in a top tier life science facility

Professional growth:

• Play a key role in producing patents and publications with significant impact on the field of biological research
• Opportunities for advancement and expanding responsibilities as the organization scales

 

Compensation

Estimated Base Salary $189,000 - $258,000

This is the pay range for this position that we reasonably expect to pay. Individual compensation is based on various factors including, experience, education, skillset, and geographic location. This range is for the SF Bay Area, California location and may be adjusted to the labor market in other geographic areas.

Benefits and Perks:

• Employee Stock Option Plan
• 100% Health Plan Coverage for Employees & Dependents (Medical, Dental, & Vision)
• Employer Retirement Contributions to 401(k)
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Health & Wellbeing Program
• Office Snacks and Beverages
• Regular Team Bonding Activities

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals seeking employment at Glyphic Biotechnologies are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.