Research Assistant

onepot combines AI, robotics, and chemistry to automate small-molecule synthesis. We’re building a team of chemists, engineers, and researchers working together to make chemical synthesis faster and more reliable.

We are looking for a research assistant to support and execute laboratory operations. Your work will help ensure that materials are ready, automated workflows run smoothly, and that the lab runs at maximum efficiency. This role will report to the Head of Laboratory Operations.

Working hours: 8 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (08:00–17:00), Pacific Time.

The role

This is a hands-on position spanning chemical inventory, automated laboratory workflows, and general lab operations. You will work closely with our lab team, helping organize ongoing work and keeping accurate records of what was completed.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Building block onboarding and inventory: Receive and onboard new chemical building blocks from external vendors. Verify materials and accompanying documentation, register and label them, and ensure they are stored correctly and available for use.

• Automated lab workflows: Prepare materials and consumables, set up and run established workflows involving automated liquid handling, and monitor their progress.

• Documentation and troubleshooting: Maintain accurate inventory and workflow records, identify discrepancies or operating issues, and resolve routine problems or escalate them to the appropriate teammates.

• Lab upkeep: Keep work areas and shared equipment clean and organized, replenish supplies, and perform routine laboratory/instrument maintenance.

• Shift handovers: Communicate completed work, workflow status, inventory changes, and unresolved issues to the evening team.

• Prioritization: Self-steer and execute tasks in alignment with guided project priority.

• Ownership: Responsible for operational tasks on a recurring basis.

• Mentorship: Assist in the training and bring-up of new Lab Associates. Provide guidance as needed to enable team success.

Education and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field, or equivalent practical laboratory experience.

• Prior hands-on experience in a chemical or biotechnology laboratory, including safe chemical handling, storage and accurate documentation.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Comfortable following written protocols, using digital inventory tools, and performing basic laboratory calculations.

• Ability to work independently after training, with sound judgment about when to ask for help.

Experience with laboratory automation or chemical inventory management is preferred.

Who will succeed here

You may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy practical lab work and take ownership of getting tasks completed accurately.

• Notice missing labels, inconsistent records, and other details that affect the reliability of a workflow.

• Communicate clearly and help teammates stay organized.

• Are interested in learning how chemistry, robotics, and software work together.

• Are comfortable with start-up culture and wearing many hats.

Additional requirements

• Ability to work in person at our South San Francisco laboratory.

• Commitment to safe chemical handling and laboratory procedures.

onepot is an equal-opportunity employer.