Founding R&D Chemist
We’re building experimentally verified chemistry datasets to help AI models reason more accurately about molecules and chemical structures.
We’re looking for an R&D chemist to lead our experimental work, verify scientific answers, and help our engineering founders understand the chemistry behind the product.
What you’ll do
- Identify molecular structures using 1D and 2D NMR, including COSY, HSQC and HMBC, supported by LC-MS and HRMS.
- Design and coordinate experiments with partner laboratories, including sample preparation, instrument measurements and raw-data collection.
- Investigate ambiguous spectra, impurities, byproducts and competing structural assignments.
- Create challenging chemistry problems with answers supported by experimental evidence.
- Review disputed answers and clearly document what the evidence proves, what remains uncertain and which additional measurements are needed.
- Work with engineers to turn scientific reasoning into reliable evaluation criteria for AI models.
- Help select laboratory partners and establish practical quality-control procedures.
What we’re looking for
- A degree in chemistry (MSc or PhD is a plus). We care more about what you can do with real spectra than about your degree.
- Strong practical experience in structure elucidation using NMR and mass spectrometry.
- Enough synthetic chemistry knowledge to reason about reaction products, byproducts and isomers.
- Ability to explain complex chemistry clearly to people without a chemistry background.
- Independence, scientific rigour and enthusiasm for building in an early-stage startup.
Good to have
Experience in a CRO, pharmaceutical R&D team or analytical facility; hands-on instrument operation; familiarity with cheminformatics, Python or RDKit. Prior AI experience is optional.
Why join
You’ll help define our scientific standards, shape the first product and work directly with the founders. The role offers scope to grow into scientific leadership as the company develops.
Commitment and compensation
Initial commitment, salary and equity will be discussed transparently. We’re open to an initial part-time collaboration, with a planned transition to full-time after funding.
To apply
Share your CV and one example of a difficult structure-elucidation problem you solved. Explain the evidence you used and how you ruled out alternative structures.