Research Scientist, Compound Management & Automation

Role Summary

Research Scientist, Compound Management & Automation in Emeryville, CA. Key contributor to the CMAG group, supporting compound fulfillment and disbursement; operation, development, shipping, and receiving of compounds; and validation of laboratory automation systems. Involves upgrading hardware/software, updating systems, and validating lab automation while prioritizing order fulfillment, customer satisfaction, and quality.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day compound handling workflows, including prioritization and fulfillment of daily orders; receiving; packaging and unpackaging compound samples from internal and external sources; sample distribution; validation of laboratory equipment; management of laboratory supplies; and periodic review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Perform compound management tasks such as manual transfer and weighing of compounds in powder format; compound dissolution using liquid handlers; and generation of compound plates for testing in plated formats using manual and automated liquid-handling systems (e.g., Tecan, Agilent Bravo, Hamilton).
• Support and contribute to the testing and implementation of new automated and semi-automated laboratory workflows.
• Serve as a first point of contact to inform and assist with troubleshooting a variety of equipment, operational, and logistical issues.
• Work with urgency, manage core compound hub activities in parallel, and support general lab responsibilities.
• Adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment; manage multiple priorities with flexibility and accountability.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field and at least 1–2 years of experience in a laboratory environment. Experience with liquid handlers (e.g., Tecan, Agilent systems) and TTP storage systems is a plus.
• Prior experience handling chemicals, weighing compounds, and preparing assay plates for research.
• Hands-on experience with compound management processes and a practical understanding of inventory management, solution preparation, quality control methodologies, logistics management, and service-oriented practices.
• Self-motivated, well-organized, reliable, and customer-focused.
• Excellent written, verbal, and time-management skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively both as a team member and as an individual contributor.
• Strong attention to detail, keen observational skills, and a commitment to quality.