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full-timeResearch Scientist, Synthetic Organic Chemistry
Dayhoff Labs · Cambridge, MA
Dayhoff Labs is a research-focused organization working to reverse-engineer the origins of life by bridging geochemistry and biochemistry through AI-driven insights. This full-time Research Scientist position in Cambridge, MA, centers on the synthesis of biological molecules, including peptides and nucleic acid derivatives. The role requires a candidate who can balance independent organic synthesis with rigorous analytical method development. Daily responsibilities involve designing and executing synthetic pathways, optimizing purification strategies, and utilizing advanced instrumentation like LC-MS/MS and Orbitrap-based proteomics to characterize reaction products. You will collaborate closely with enzymologists and computational scientists to interpret data and refine experimental designs. This position is well-suited for a chemist with a strong background in practical organic synthesis and quantitative mass spectrometry who enjoys troubleshooting complex chemical problems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with triple-quadrupole methods and a commitment to building reproducible, high-quality analytical workflows. You will be expected to maintain high standards of documentation and experimental control while contributing to the development of new chemical systems.
About us We're reverse-engineering the origin of life — one of the great unsolved problems in science, and one we think AI finally makes tractable. Understanding this transition, from geochemistry to biochemistry, is what will let us orchestrate molecular networks and build systems that are more capable, adaptive, and efficient. If we succeed, the applications are vast: catalysis, green synthesis, ab initio synthetic biology, programmable matter. Understanding and harnessing these processes could let ten billion of us thrive on this planet — and let life keep evolving beyond it. We're a small, diverse team of AI engineers, computational scientists, and bench scientists. We hold ourselves to the rigor of a research institute, but we ship like an engineering firm. Global team, HQs in Cambridge, MA and London, UK. The role We're looking for a chemist who combines organic synthesis with strong analytical expertise. You'll synthesise biological molecules — including peptides, nucleic acid derivatives, and modified building blocks — and develop methods to understand how they behave in chemical and biochemical reactions. Analytical method development is a central part of the role. You'll use chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify products, quantify reaction progress, and resolve complex mixtures. Working closely with our enzymologists and computational scientists, you'll help decide what to make, how to measure it, and what the results tell us about the underlying chemistry. What you'll do Design and execute syntheses of biological molecules and their derivatives, optimising reaction conditions and purification strategies. Develop and troubleshoot LC-MS/MS methods, particularly triple-quadrupole methods for targeted quantification of substrates and products. Apply Orbitrap-based proteomics workflows to characterise peptides, proteins, and their modifications. Establish compound identity and purity using chromatography, NMR, and mass spectrometry. Work with experimental and computational colleagues to design assays, test proposed chemistry, and investigate unexpected results. Build reproducible synthetic and analytical workflows, with appropriate controls, calibration, and clear documentation. Essential experience We're interested in what you've made and measured, and how you approached the chemistry. We care about: Practical experience in organic synthesis of biological molecules, particularly peptides and/or nucleic acid derivatives. Strong analytical method development skills, including sample preparation, chromatographic separation, and quantitative mass spectrometry. Hands-on experience with triple-quadrupole LC-MS/MS and Orbitrap-based proteomics. The ability to independently troubleshoot synthetic and analytical problems, from poor reaction yields to ambiguous spectra or matrix effects. Sound scientific judgement about experimental design, data quality, and what your measurements can support. Highly preferred Experience with solid-phase peptide or oligonucleotide synthesis, bioconjugation, or non-canonical building blocks. Familiarity with acoustic ejection technologies for sample handling or mass spectrometry. Experience developing high-throughput analytical workflows or integrating methods with laboratory automation. Experience characterising enzyme-catalysed reactions or working closely with chemical biologists and enzymologists. Logistics Compensation is highly competitive. We're also able to sponsor visas for the right candidate. Find more English Speaking Jobs in United Kingdom on Arbeitnow
| Role | Research Scientist, Synthetic Organic Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Company | Dayhoff Labs |
| Location | Cambridge, MA |
| Type | full-time |
| Compensation | Not disclosed |
| Deadline | Rolling |
Typical process for this type of role
A general guide — the exact steps for this specific listing may vary; check the original posting for details.
- 1ApplicationSubmit your resume through the apply link.
- 2ScreeningRecruiter reviews your background against the role.
- 3AssessmentA technical test, assignment, or coding round, depending on the role.
- 4Interview(s)One or more rounds with the hiring team.
- 5OfferOffer letter with compensation and start date.
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