Research Assistant

onepot • South San Francisco, CA

14d • Onsite

About The Position

onepot combines AI, robotics, and chemistry to automate small-molecule synthesis. The Research Assistant supports and executes laboratory operations, helping ensure materials are ready, automated workflows run smoothly, and the lab operates efficiently. This hands-on role spans chemical inventory, automated laboratory workflows, and general lab operations. The position reports to the Head of Laboratory Operations and works closely with the lab team to organize ongoing work and maintain accurate records of completed tasks. Working hours are 8 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (08:00–17:00), Pacific Time. The position is performed in person at onepot’s South San Francisco laboratory.

Requirements

• 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.
• Comfort following written protocols, using digital inventory tools, and performing basic laboratory calculations.
• Ability to work independently after training and use sound judgment about when to ask for help.
• Ability to work in person at the South San Francisco laboratory.
• Commitment to safe chemical handling and laboratory procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with laboratory automation or chemical inventory management.
• Interest in learning how chemistry, robotics, and software work together.
• Comfort with start-up culture and wearing many hats.

Responsibilities

• Receive and onboard chemical building blocks from external vendors; verify materials and documentation, register and label them, and ensure they are stored correctly and available for use.
• Prepare materials and consumables, set up and run established workflows involving automated liquid handling, and monitor workflow progress.
• Maintain accurate inventory and workflow records, identify discrepancies or operating issues, resolve routine problems, and escalate issues to appropriate teammates.
• Keep work areas and shared equipment clean and organized, replenish supplies, and perform routine laboratory and instrument maintenance.
• Communicate completed work, workflow status, inventory changes, and unresolved issues to the evening team during shift handovers.
• Self-steer and execute tasks in alignment with guided project priorities.
• Take recurring ownership of operational tasks.
• Assist with training and bringing up new Lab Associates, providing guidance as needed to support team success.
• Follow safe chemical-handling and laboratory procedures.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level