Research Associate- Analytical Chemistry

Research Associate- Analytical Chemistry

About the Company

Sapho Bio is the developer of a rapid microbiology release platform for precision medicine. We are a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers committed to transforming pharmaceutical release testing through innovation, speed, and accuracy. We are a team built on ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement, scaling rapidly following product validation and commercial traction. Our culture emphasizes agency, innovation, intellectual curiosity, and continual learning.

About the Role

We are seeking a meticulous and dependable Research Associate. You will work directly with our fleet of HPLCs to develop and run methods indicating the potency and stability of pharmaceuticals.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, comfortable developing methods and debugging instrumentation independently, and passionate about maintaining the highest standards of laboratory compliance.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related scientific discipline: relevant laboratory experience considered in lieu of degree


• Hands-on experience using HPLC instruments to analyze biologics or small molecules and develop analytical methods


• Independent, motivated, and highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities


• Able to read and comprehend technical documentation including scientific literature, SOPs, and regulatory documents


• Proficient with pipetting and general lab technique


• Live within a 30 minute commute of San Carlos or willing to relocate

Preferred

• A history of using Agilent HPLC instruments for chromatogram acquisition and Agilent OpenLab software for data analysis


• Familiarity with USP, ISO, and/or GLP/GMP standards

Core Responsibilities

• Develop chromatography-based analytical methods for strength and stability testing in accordance with USP guidelines. Write and review SOPs


• Analyze and interpret data; communicate findings to the lab team and recommend best course of action


• Oversee strength and stability analysis of a variety of compounds. Effectively prioritize responsibilities to maintain short and efficient turnaround times


• Manage multiple analytical instruments alongside an inventory of standards and consumables. Perform regular calibrations and ensure maximal uptime.


• Diagnose and troubleshoot problems in both assays and instrumentation. Document corrective and preventive actions.


• Assist in other chemical and biochemical assays throughout the lab as needed

Travel & Logistics

Must be able to commute to the San Carlos, CA office on a consistent weekly schedule Monday-Friday.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Salary: $100,000-$110,000 (commensurate with experience and market benchmarks)


• Paid Time Off: Unlimited PTO, plus company-recognized holidays


• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage


• DoorDash Credit: $25 credit for lunch and dinner while working in the office


• 401(k) Plan with company matching, subject to plan terms


• Company-paid life insurance


• Stock option package

Ideal Candidate Profile

You are someone who:

• Takes full ownership of outcomes, not just tasks


• Is highly proactive and treats every sample as if patient safety depends on it


• Thrives in structured, compliance-driven environments with zero tolerance for shortcuts


• Has meticulous attention to detail and catches errors others might miss


• Can be trusted to work independently and uphold the highest standards

Application Requirements
Your cover letter (one page) should include clear examples of:

• A time you demonstrated exceptional work ethic


• A time you solved a difficult problem involving an HPLC or mass spec


• A time you balanced many priorities at once

Life at Sapho Bio

• High-Impact Work: Help transform pharmaceutical testing and accelerate patient access to life-saving therapies.


• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.


• Financial Security: 401(k) with company matching and company-paid life insurance.


• Time to Recharge: Unlimited PTO and company-recognized holidays.


• Connection & Community: Team lunches, office events, and offsite gatherings.


• Competitive Compensation: Market-leading salary and meaningful equity participation.


• Fast-Paced Environment: Join a team that moves quickly, learns continuously, and executes with purpose.


• World-Class Team: Work alongside experienced scientists, engineers, and operators.


• Prime Location: Sunny, collaborative workspace in San Carlos.

Sapho Bio is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment is at-will, in accordance with California law.