What are the responsibilities and job description for the Analytical Chemist position at PKx Bio?
Analytical Chemist (Senior Research Associate) – Drug Formulation / CMC
đź“Ť Pleasanton, CA (Onsite)
PkX Bio is building next-generation formulation technologies to improve the pharmacokinetic performance of small molecule therapeutics—unlocking new delivery options and differentiated products.
We’re looking for a hands-on Analytical Chemist (Senior Research Associate) to generate high-quality analytical data and help advance our Solusalt™ platform. This is a highly impactful, onsite role in a startup lab environment, where you’ll contribute directly to both analytical execution and lab build-out.
What You’ll Do- Develop, optimize, and qualify analytical methods (primarily HPLC/UPLC) for drug substance and drug product
- Execute fit-for-purpose method validation activities in early development
- Perform analytical testing to support formulation development
- Conduct wet chemistry analyses (e.g., titration)
- Perform physicochemical characterization (solubility, pH profiling, dissolution)
- Apply solid-state characterization techniques as needed
- Troubleshoot methods and instrumentation to ensure robustness and reproducibility
- Analyze, interpret, and clearly document experimental data
- Author technical reports, methods, and internal documentation
- Collaborate cross-functionally with formulation, process development, and external partners/CDMOs
- Support lab setup and operational build-out in a startup environment
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field
- 7–10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech analytical development
- Strong hands-on experience with HPLC/UPLC method development and troubleshooting
- Experience with wet chemistry techniques
- Familiarity with physicochemical and solid-state characterization
- Experience supporting fit-for-purpose method validation
- Strong data analysis, documentation, and technical writing skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup environment
- Experience in early-stage CMC or 505(b)(2) programs
- Familiarity with dissolution testing, impurity profiling, or stability studies
- Exposure to LC-MS or advanced analytical techniques
- Experience working with CROs/CDMOs
- Deliver robust, reproducible HPLC methods supporting active programs
- Generate high-quality analytical data for Solusalt platform development
- Execute fit-for-purpose validation activities effectively
- Take strong ownership of analytical workflows and lab operations
- Contribute meaningfully to lab build-out and readiness
- Build strong cross-functional and external collaborations
Join a team working at the forefront of drug delivery innovation. At PkX Bio, you’ll help translate formulation science into clinically meaningful therapies—within a highly collaborative, startup environment.
PkX Bio is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations as needed. Compensation will be discussed during the hiring process.