Scientist I, Discovery Chemistry

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals•San Diego, CA

2d•$105,000 - $115,000•Onsite

About The Position

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated Scientist I to join our Discovery Chemistry team in San Diego. This role will focus on the design, synthesis, purification, and characterization of peptides that support the discovery and optimization of next-generation RNAi therapeutics. Working as part of a multidisciplinary discovery team, you will leverage your expertise in peptide chemistry to advance innovative drug discovery programs. The ideal candidate is an independent scientist with strong hands-on experience in peptide synthesis, analytical characterization, and scientific problem-solving who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment. This position is expected to be hired at the Scientist I level; however, candidates with slightly less experience who demonstrate strong technical skills and growth potential may be considered for the Associate Scientist III level. This role is onsite 5 days a week in San Diego.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
8+ years of relevant industry laboratory experience or demonstrated scientific leadership within peptide chemistry.
Strong background in organic chemistry and analytical chemistry.
Hands-on experience with solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS).
Experience operating automated peptide synthesizers.
Proficiency in analytical characterization using HPLC, UPLC, and LC-MS.
Excellent experimental design, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively present scientific results.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting peptide discovery from hit identification through lead optimization.
Experience with high-throughput peptide synthesis or screening technologies.
Familiarity with biophysical assays used to characterize biomolecular interactions.
Experience working on oligonucleotide, peptide, or RNA-based therapeutic discovery programs.
Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively to cross-functional research teams.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, optimize, and troubleshoot solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) workflows using both automated and manual synthesis techniques.
Purify and characterize peptides using chromatographic and mass spectrometry techniques, including HPLC and LC-MS.
Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and propose next steps to support discovery programs.
Contribute to the design and optimization of novel peptide constructs that support RNAi therapeutic development.
Maintain accurate and well-organized experimental records using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
Present scientific findings and participate in project team discussions.
Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and company policies.
Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific literature in peptide chemistry and drug discovery.