Synthetic chemist

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 to yun.yung@pomelobio.com with the subject line:

• “Synthetic Chemist Application – [Your Name]”