Research Associate, Library Synthesis

At X-Chem, it is our mission to leverage the world’s leading drug discovery platform to help create molecules that will improve human health. X-Chem is a leader in small molecule discovery science, providing pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies with a complete, seamless solution for screening, hit validation, and lead optimization. As pioneers of DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) technology, the company leverages its market‑leading DEL platform to rapidly screen billions of diverse drug‑like molecules to discover novel small molecule leads against challenging, high‑value therapeutic targets.

In‑house hit‑to‑lead and lead optimization services driven by AI and physics‑based modeling enable clients to progress their compounds directly from hit all the way through to candidate nomination. Our well‑proven expertise in medicinal chemistry, custom synthesis, and scale‑up process chemistry enables us to support all aspects of drug discovery in a deeply integrated technology‑driven platform.

X-Chem is seeking candidates to join as a Research Associate on our Library Synthesis team. This role offers hands‑on experience in high‑throughput on‑DNA chemistry, reaction optimization, and library synthesis within a collaborative, fast‑paced environment. The ideal candidate will contribute to high‑quality experimental execution, data integrity, and continuous improvement of workflows while working closely with cross‑functional and global teams to advance innovative discovery efforts.

• High‑throughput, on‑DNA reaction validation
• Reaction optimization of on‑DNA chemistry
• Library synthesis for DNA‑encoded libraries (DELs)
• Buffer preparations
• Reagent and consumables ordering
• Document and communicate experimental results clearly, both within the team and in cross‑site meetings
• Ensure high‑quality experimental execution, meticulous record keeping, and adherence to laboratory safety standards
• Collaborate closely with the DEL team and global colleagues to align priorities and advance ongoing projects
• Contribute to continuous improvement of internal methods, protocols, and workflows

• BS or MS in Chemistry or a related field, with 6 months to 2 years of laboratory experience in an academic or industrial setting
• Experience in organic synthesis
• Strong organizational skills with close attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively to meet timelines
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present to external partners
• Meticulous approach to documentation and data handling
• Proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment

• Working familiarity with LCMS is highly valuable
• The ability to present scientific data internally/externally

X-Chem offers highly competitive compensation based on prior experience and qualifications as well as comprehensive benefits in order to best support our people. Benefits we offer include 95% paid medical, dental, STD/LTD and life insurance; 12 paid holidays; 22 days PTO; tuition reimbursement; onsite fitness program; HSA account with company contributions; and FSA account for dependent care. Our work environment includes casual dress, bike storage, free parking, and wellness perks.

X-Chem is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please apply directly through our career page at