Pomelo Biosciences
Synthetic Chemist (Entry-Level / Post-College)
Location: San Diego, CA (On-site position with startup flexibility)
About Pomelo Biosciences, Inc. Pomelo Biosciences is an emerging biotech startup developing next-generation bioactive molecules and peptide-based innovations that bridge biotechnology, chemistry, and consumer health. Our mission is to translate bold scientific ideas into real-world applications across therapeutic, cosmetic, and oral care categories.
We are seeking a driven, hands‑on Synthetic Chemist who thrives in a startup environment — someone excited to grow with the company, contribute to diverse R&D projects, and help shape the scientific foundation of Pomelo Biosciences.
Position Summary The Synthetic Chemist will support the research and development of novel small molecules, contributing directly to the company’s early‑stage product pipeline. This role is ideal for a recent chemistry graduate who enjoys bench chemistry, fast‑paced experimentation, and creative problem‑solving.
Key Responsibilities
Be able to work with a senior chemist to strategize and execute synthetic aims.
Design or co‑design, synthesize, and purify small molecules and analogs.
Execute multi‑step organic syntheses and optimize reaction conditions.
Characterize products using NMR, LC‑MS, HPLC, IR, and other analytical methods.
Maintain detailed written paper and digital experimental records and prepare concise technical summaries.
Collaborate with team members across biology, formulation, and product development.
Contribute to lab setup, inventory management, ordering, and process improvement in a startup environment.
Fully understand and contribute to a safe laboratory environment with adherence to all safety guidelines, safety data sheets, and knowledge of possible chemical and biological hazards.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (Master’s preferred but not required).
Solid understanding of organic reaction mechanisms and synthesis strategies.
Experience with reaction monitoring (e.g., TLC and diagnostic stains), purification (e.g., flash chromatography), and analytical instrumentation (e.g., NMR, LC‑MS, HPLC).
Basic chemistry software and database literacy (ChemDraw, Mnova, and SciFinder).
Strong hands‑on lab skills, organization, and scientific curiosity.
Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast‑paced, evolving startup setting.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Must have own car or transportation to travel to neighboring institutions.
Preferred Experience
Undergraduate or internship research experience in organic synthesis and compound characterization.
Familiarity with formulation chemistry, bioassay guided fractionation, and process optimization.
Ability to perform routine plate‑based biological assays.
Familiarity with other software and databases (e.g., Pubmed, Endnote, GraphPad, Google Workspace, Asana, Slack, and equivalent).
Salary and Employment
Equal‑opportunity employer
Why Join Pomelo
Opportunity to be part of an early‑stage biotech startup making a real impact.
Exposure to cross‑disciplinary R&D bridging chemistry and biology.
A creative, collaborative team environment where your ideas matter.
Competitive compensation and future growth opportunities.
How to Apply Send your resume, brief cover letter, and any relevant research or project summaries toyun.yung@pomelobio.com with the subject line:
“Synthetic Chemist Application – [Your Name]”
#J-18808-Ljbffr
About Pomelo Biosciences, Inc. Pomelo Biosciences is an emerging biotech startup developing next-generation bioactive molecules and peptide-based innovations that bridge biotechnology, chemistry, and consumer health. Our mission is to translate bold scientific ideas into real-world applications across therapeutic, cosmetic, and oral care categories.
We are seeking a driven, hands‑on Synthetic Chemist who thrives in a startup environment — someone excited to grow with the company, contribute to diverse R&D projects, and help shape the scientific foundation of Pomelo Biosciences.
Position Summary The Synthetic Chemist will support the research and development of novel small molecules, contributing directly to the company’s early‑stage product pipeline. This role is ideal for a recent chemistry graduate who enjoys bench chemistry, fast‑paced experimentation, and creative problem‑solving.
Key Responsibilities
Be able to work with a senior chemist to strategize and execute synthetic aims.
Design or co‑design, synthesize, and purify small molecules and analogs.
Execute multi‑step organic syntheses and optimize reaction conditions.
Characterize products using NMR, LC‑MS, HPLC, IR, and other analytical methods.
Maintain detailed written paper and digital experimental records and prepare concise technical summaries.
Collaborate with team members across biology, formulation, and product development.
Contribute to lab setup, inventory management, ordering, and process improvement in a startup environment.
Fully understand and contribute to a safe laboratory environment with adherence to all safety guidelines, safety data sheets, and knowledge of possible chemical and biological hazards.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (Master’s preferred but not required).
Solid understanding of organic reaction mechanisms and synthesis strategies.
Experience with reaction monitoring (e.g., TLC and diagnostic stains), purification (e.g., flash chromatography), and analytical instrumentation (e.g., NMR, LC‑MS, HPLC).
Basic chemistry software and database literacy (ChemDraw, Mnova, and SciFinder).
Strong hands‑on lab skills, organization, and scientific curiosity.
Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast‑paced, evolving startup setting.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Must have own car or transportation to travel to neighboring institutions.
Preferred Experience
Undergraduate or internship research experience in organic synthesis and compound characterization.
Familiarity with formulation chemistry, bioassay guided fractionation, and process optimization.
Ability to perform routine plate‑based biological assays.
Familiarity with other software and databases (e.g., Pubmed, Endnote, GraphPad, Google Workspace, Asana, Slack, and equivalent).
Salary and Employment
Equal‑opportunity employer
Why Join Pomelo
Opportunity to be part of an early‑stage biotech startup making a real impact.
Exposure to cross‑disciplinary R&D bridging chemistry and biology.
A creative, collaborative team environment where your ideas matter.
Competitive compensation and future growth opportunities.
How to Apply Send your resume, brief cover letter, and any relevant research or project summaries toyun.yung@pomelobio.com with the subject line:
“Synthetic Chemist Application – [Your Name]”
#J-18808-Ljbffr