Scientist II, Polymer Chemistry

Founded in 2012, and located in one of the largest biotech hubs in the world, Slingshot Biosciences is a growing life sciences company with a platform technology and paradigm-shifting mission to make synthetic cells the gold standard for all cell-based applications. We currently have a suite of products that allow for rapid, stable instrument deployment and are poised to make headway into clinical markets with controls for engineered cell therapies.

At Slingshot, we value diversity and believe that a variety of backgrounds and experiences leads to more innovative ideas and a better understanding of our customers. Passion is at the core of our values, and employees are encouraged to pursue their passions in their work and contribute to the company’s overall mission.

We desire motivated team members who appreciate the freedom to be creative and think outside the box to solve problems. We offer an environment where employees are empowered to take ownership of their work, and have the ability to quickly contribute new ideas and iterate on current processes. In everything we do, we are dedicated to delivering top-quality products and services to our customers which ultimately makes a significant impact on patient care.

Slingshot Biosciences is seeking a polymer scientist to drive the development of our next-generation synthetic cells and their applications. This role will require innovative capabilities in developing and iterating polymer systems with a strong technical background in the formulation and functionalization of various polymer materials. Proactive communication, diligent execution and documentation of complex workflows, and a highly collaborative mindset will be critical to success. We also place a premium on creativity, intellectual curiosity, flexibility, resiliency, drive, and a proactive, can-do attitude. This is a full-time, on-site position at Slingshot’s headquarters in Emeryville, CA, reporting to the Director of Engineering and Core Research. For the successful candidate this will be a fantastic opportunity in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and a chance to deliver products that will positively impact human health.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop new polymer solutions for next-gen synthetic cell products.
• Design and iterate formulations based on internal and external product requirements. Design and perform synthesis, characterization and troubleshooting with various equipment, including custom equipment.
• Develop a deep understanding of the interplay between polymer chemistry, microfluidics, production process and conjugation for root-cause analysis and technical troubleshooting.
• Contribute proof-of-concept (POC) data to inform critical decision making.
• Perform bench-scale scale-up studies and validation studies, such as variability, reproducibility, stability. Participate in technical transfer to process development.
• Identify and validate alternative sources of critical raw materials, develop QC processes to ensure consistent product quality.
• Actively contribute in cross-functional teams, generate and deliver technical reports, lead technical reviews, generate SOPs, and train other technical staff.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory health and safety guidelines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Biomaterial Engineering or related field with 4+ years industry experience. Masters with 7+ years industry experience is considered.
• Experience in several of the following is required (roughly in prioritized order, the more the better): Polymer synthesis, polymer functionalization, polymer physics, structure-property relationship, polymer hydrogels, micro/nanomaterials fabrication and characterization, biocompatible polymers and biopolymers, stimuli-responsive polymers, surface chemistry, experience in a start-up environment.
• Experience with the following is preferred: polymer-cell interactions, microfluidics, conjugation chemistry, protein chemistry, cell therapy, flow cytometry, technology transfer.
• Proven success of individual and cross-disciplinary research.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail.
• Proactive approach to time management and effective task prioritization.
• Strong problem-solving skills, eagerness and ability to troubleshoot experimental issues independently.

Our salary ranges are calculated by role and level. Your position within that range will be determined by your job-related knowledge, skills, experience, relevant education, and training/certifications. In addition to those factors, we also examine internal equity as well as consider current market rate, and title may be assessed one level lower or higher accordingly. After you join the company your performance, contributions, and results along with business and organizational needs will affect your base salary. The base salary range for this full-time position is between $130,000 – $160,000 + equity + benefits.

What we offer at Slingshot:

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Stock Option Plan
• Paid Time Off (Vacation & Sick)
• Family Leave
• Life Insurance
• Fully stocked break room with food, snacks and beverages

Slingshot Biosciences requires employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 unless they have an approved medical or religious accommodation. Proof of such vaccination will be required as part of the hiring process.

Slingshot Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.