Research Associate, Molecules

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate, Small Molecule Formulation Development, for a direct hire opportunity with one of our clients, a start‑up biotechnology company in San Diego, CA. If you are driven by the prospect of translating cutting‑edge scientific discoveries into tangible advancements and are poised to advance your career, join us as we pioneer progress in the biotechnology industry.

Workplace: Onsite in the San Diego CA area

Position Title: Research Associate, Small Molecule API Formulation Development

Position Type: Contract‑to‑hire

Pay rate: $30-45 per hour

Make an Impact in Pioneering Ocular Therapeutics

Are you ready to play a critical role in a mission‑driven biotech start‑up developing next‑generation neuroprotective therapeutics? A nimble, innovative, and well‑funded team is seeking a hands‑on Research Associate to expand their Glaucoma Formulation Development group. Here, your contributions will directly accelerate programs aiming to address major unmet needs in ocular health, particularly those impacting vision loss and blindness.

• Experiment at the Bench: Support the full spectrum of formulation development from sample prep through data analysis, focusing on new formulations and the evaluation of novel small molecule pipeline APIs.
• Leverage Core Techniques: Utilize HPLC and UV‑Vis (primarily Agilent systems) on a daily basis to analyze samples and support ongoing HPV research and intravitreal ocular CMC programs.
• Document with Precision: Employ Benchling ELN and Good Documentation Practices (GDP) to communicate results, maintain rigorous records, and contribute to regulatory documentation.
• Enable Production: Assist with non‑GLP/GLP production, ensure compliance with SOPs, and participate in stability, solubility, and release testing of prototypes.
• Collaborate & Innovate: As part of a close‑knit team, you’ll work directly with senior scientists and help shape best practices for a rapidly growing start‑up.

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related technical discipline
• 2+ years hands‑on industry experience (small molecule experience required)
• Strong technical experience with HPLC, UV, and sample prep—Agilent instrumentation preferred
• Exposure to documentation systems (Benchling preferred) and a disciplined approach to GDP
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and an excellent written communicator
• Experience in a regulated, quality‑focused laboratory setting
• Motivation to grow within a start‑up; a positive cultural contributor open to a dynamic, collaborative environment

• Familiarity with sustained‑release formulations or experience in ocular drug development
• Experience in intravitreal, injectable, or ophthalmic products
• CMC documentation support for preclinical or IND‑enabling studies

This is an opportunity to directly impact the trajectory of programs tackling significant medical challenges in vision science, working in state‑of‑the‑art facilities with mentorship and resources for growth. As a key member of a small, empowered group, your work will be visible, valued, and critical for success. The intention is for this role to convert to permanent based on mutual fit.

Kelly may use AI‑powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce.

Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.