Research Associate

Research Associate — Full-Time

Location: San Francisco Bay Area, CA
Compensation: $70,000 - $80,000 + benefits
Schedule: Full-time

About Us

We are a small-but-mighty, VC-backed stealth startup reinventing the antiquated, toxic, and damaging chemistry behind conventional beauty and personal care technology. Our mission is to develop safer, high-performance alternatives using cutting-edge chemistry and material science. At Edulis Labs, you’ll join a passionate, interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, and consumer innovation.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our R&D team. This is a hands-on laboratory role focused on the formulation, synthesis, and characterization of novel products for consumer applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science, with experience conducting wet-lab research and using analytical instrumentation. You’ll work closely with senior scientists to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and help drive innovation in a fast-paced startup environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with Edulis Scientists to design and conduct wet-lab experiments to support the development of new materials
• Collect and interpret analytical data (e.g., ATR-FTIR, NMR, TGA, DSC, Optical Microscopy, AFM, SEM) to evaluate formulation and performance
• Analyze and visualize experimental data using Python or other data tools.
• Maintain detailed and organized laboratory notebooks and data records.
• Present experimental findings and progress during R&D meetings.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with the broader team to inform product development.
• Ensure personal safety and compliance with all safety protocols when handling chemicals, operating equipment, or performing experimental procedures.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of laboratory experience (academic or industry), including hands-on wet-lab work
• Familiarity with analytical instrumentation such as Optical Microscopy, ATR-FTIR, NMR, TGA, or DSC
• Knowledge of basic laboratory safety practices and safe handling of chemicals and equipment.
• Experience with basic data analysis and visualization (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A collaborative, curious, and self-motivated mindset
  
   

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental insurance
• Opportunity to make a direct impact at an early-stage, high-growth startup.
• Work alongside a team of experienced scientists and entrepreneurs.
• Dynamic, mission-driven work environment
  
   

How to Apply

Please submit your resume (CV) and a brief cover letter to apply@edulislabs.com with the subject Research Associate Application - [Your Name]. In your cover letter, outline your interest in the position, relevant laboratory experience, and any background in analytical techniques, formulation, or data analysis. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.