Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Department: DRUG DISCOVERY

Who We are:

Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives. Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs.

Position Description: 

Calico is seeking an experienced Process Chemist to join our laboratory-based chemical development team. The ideal candidate brings extensive hands-on experience in process research, route scouting, and scale-up of organic molecules. In this role, you will design, optimize, and execute synthetic processes that enable efficient, safe, and scalable manufacturing of small-molecule intermediates and APIs. This is a lab-focused position requiring strong experimental skills, deep organic chemistry knowledge, and the ability to translate laboratory findings into robust processes. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot synthetic routes for intermediates and drug substance candidates
• Perform laboratory experiments to improve yields, selectivity, throughput, and impurity control
• Conduct detailed reaction analysis using, HPLC, GC, LC-MS, and other analytical techniques
• Perform impurity identification and synthesis
• Identify and mitigate process risks related to safety, scalability, and robustness
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners including analytical chemistry, formulations, and quality assurance 
• Prepare clear, data-driven reports and present experimental results to project teams
• Support technology transfer to contract manufacturing organizations, including review of master batch records and process descriptions
• Maintain accurate lab documentation and adhere to all safety and compliance standards

Position Requirements: 

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or related field with 8+ years of relevant industrial experience in process chemistry
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and reaction mechanism fundamentals
• Demonstrated success in developing scalable synthetic processes
• Proficiency with standard analytical instruments and data interpretation
• Excellent problem-solving, organization, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team environment
• Familiarity with cGMP and ICH guidelines 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality experimentation
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities
• A proactive, collaborative mindset with enthusiasm for process improvement
• Must be willing to work onsite 5 days a week

The estimated base salary range for this role is $198,000 - $241,000. Actual pay will be based on a number of factors including experience and qualifications. This position is also eligible for two annual cash bonuses.