Chemistry Assistant

TeraPore Technologies is a venture-backed startup developing cutting edge nanoseparations materials for the biopharmaceutical market and beyond. Our team is comprised of scientists, separation experts, and biopharma industry veterans, all passionate about enabling safer, cleaner life science products.

TeraPore is seeking a self-motivated Chemistry Assistant. In this role you will be involved in development, optimization, and manufacturing of polymers with emphasis on living polymerization and surface grafting. You will be working in a small team environment with a multitasking culture.

This is a full-time on-site position based out of our South San Francisco facility.

Responsibilities:

• Synthesis of block copolymers and characterization of polymers while following standard procedures.
• Troubleshoot and optimize polymerization processes.
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment and glassware, determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Responsible for the operation and routine maintenance of laboratory analysis equipment such as GPC/SEC, HPLC, GC-MS and sample preparation for analysis by external testing laboratories.
• Review SOPs and write manufacturing reports.
• Use analytical tools including UV spectroscopy and GPC.
• Entering, recording, storing, and maintaining information in written and electronic forms.
• Compile, calculate, tabulate, and verify data collected.
• Analyze information and evaluate results to solve problems with the best solution.
• Conduct inspections of products to evaluate quality and performance.
• Perform all duties with accuracy and good lab practice.
• Report results and any deviations from standard protocols to technical management.
• Maintain constructive and cooperative working relationships with peers and supervisors.

Requirements:

• Minimum Associate’s degree in Chemistry or related fields with 3+ years’ experience in industry, or BS or higher in Chemistry or related fields.
• Skills in polymerization techniques, purification, and polymer characterization are required. Demonstrated experience in either a chemical lab or manufacturing environment.
• Experience using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Possess a high degree of hands-on technical aptitude and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in reviewing and following protocols and SOPs. Must be able to read, understand, and follow all company work instructions, production standards, safety procedures, quality procedures, production procedures, and Standard Operating Protocols.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Able to work in an interdisciplinary and dynamic small-team environment.
• Self-motivated and work independently to achieve production objectives.
• Must maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Be able to routinely lift up to 50 pounds.

Other skills:

• Experience with laboratory, pilot, or chemical operations (especially chemical synthesis) is a plus.
• Experience with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and/or quality control (QC) is desirable.