Senior Research Associate , Automated Chemistry

Your Impact at LILA

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Sr. RA/Associate Scientist to join our high-throughput Chemistry team. In this role, you will focus on hands-on high throughput experimentation, running automated platforms such as Chemspeed, performing high temp+pressure reactions using MTP blocks and product screening

You will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art automation technologies while contributing directly to projects that drive our company’s growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates excited to learn engineering principles, work with advanced laboratory automation, and develop a strong foundation in scientific operations in a dynamic environment.

What You'll Be Building

• Perform chemical synthesis of small molecules in an automated platform conducting high throughput experimentation under conditions such as high temperature, high pressure conditions in MTP blocks, work under inert environments
• Carry out design-build-test DOE protocols for automated chemical synthesis
• Develop and deploy integrated workflows and automation engineering solutions to expedite the transition from hit identification to lead optimization
• Handling of chemicals (solvents, organics), air sensitive materials, rapid liquid and solid dispensing using automated techniques
• Prepare reagents, solutions/electrolytes , samples, and consumables to ensure seamless continuation of experiments
• Deploy engineering skills for troubleshooting instrument/automation errors, follow detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and throughput
• Monitor workflow performance, troubleshoot common issues, and escalate when necessary to ensure continuity between shifts
• Record, organize, and maintain experimental data with high attention to detail
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and streamline processes across shift operations
• Flag unusual features or results for scientist review
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to support diverse projects across life sciences and physical sciences

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Bachelor’s or MS degree in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical/Materials Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent laboratory experience)
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• >1 year of experience with bench top and wet lab environments in an industrial setting with high throughout performing: pipetting, chemical handling, solution and sample preparation, high temperature annealing
• Hand on experience synthesizing small molecules, automation familiarity, data handling
• Experience working and disposing of acids and bases, synthesis in fume hoods and glovebox conditions, and handling organics
• Curiosity to learn new skills and techniques relevant to materials science

Bonus Points For

• Additional familiarity with nanoparticles
• Experience working in high-throughput production environments with a focus on scalability, efficiency, and accuracy
• Basic engineering skills for troubleshooting synthesis tools such as centrifuge, annealers, chemical handler robots, glove box
• Familiarity with automated workflows and techniques to operate and generate custom scripts
• Experience with characterization methods for analyzing morphology and chemical compositions