5AM Ventures

Analytical Scientist at 5AM Ventures (Emeryville, CA)

5AM Ventures· Emeryville, CA· $140k–$170k·

Role details

Salary
$140k–$170k
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full-Time

Job description

We are seeking an experienced, highly quantitative scientist to lead bioanalytical strategy and quality control across a diverse portfolio of peptide, protein, and small molecule therapeutics. This individual will define analytical approaches, oversee external CROs, and ensure that all data generated are accurate, reproducible, and decision-grade. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep knowledge of bioanalytical methods with a strong QC mindset and the ability to diagnose and resolve complex analytical challenges across multiple assay platforms.

Qualifications

  • PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, or related field
  • 8–15+ years of relevant experience in biotech, pharma, or CRO environments
  • Demonstrated expertise in bioanalytical method development, validation, and data interpretation within a quality management system (i.e. GLP / GMP)
  • Strong understanding of both:
  • Instrumental analysis as applied to drug substance drug product characterization
  • Experience overseeing and critically evaluating CRO-generated data
  • Working knowledge of GLP / GMP analysis and regulatory expectations (e.g., ICH Q2(R2))
  • Solid grounding in chemical kinetics and interpretation of concentration–time rate data

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in the development, qualification, and transfer of stability-indicating analytical methods, execution of forced degradation studies, and support of stability programs.
  • Experience across multiple molecular modalities (polymers, peptides, proteins, and, small molecules)
  • Background in analytical development or QC for regulated products
  • Experience supporting IND-enabling and early/late stage GMP method validation studies for clinical programs
  • Familiarity with complex or long-acting drug delivery systems
  • Own analytical strategy and method validation
  • Define fit-for-purpose analytical approaches for drug substance / drug product, and mechanistic studies
  • Select appropriate assay platforms (RP-HPLC/UPLC and SEC, LC-MS, colorimetry, pH, viscosity, osmolarity, endotoxin, bioactivity, and other common USP methods.)
  • Validate methods that define our products critical quality attributes.
  • Lead CRO oversight
  • Design and manage outsourced bioanalytical studies
  • Critically review assay development, validation, and sample analysis
  • Identify deficiencies in methods, data quality, or interpretation and drive resolution
  • Ensure quantitative rigor and data integrity
  • Evaluate instrument calibration models, LLOQ, accuracy/precision, and assay robustness
  • Detect and troubleshoot issues such as matrix effects, instability, adsorption, and assay interference
  • Establish internal standards for data quality across programs
  • Apply QC and regulatory principles
  • Ensure methods and datasets meet GLP and regulatory expectations (e.g., ICH Q2(R2))
  • Contribute to analytical sections of IND-enabling packages and regulatory filings
  • Implement quality systems and documentation standards where needed
  • Support cross-functional decision making
  • Work closely with CMC, pharmacology, and clinical teams to interpret data correctly
  • Provide clear recommendations based on quantitative evidence
  • Write reports that enable cross-functional understanding of methods and results.
  • Operate across modalities
  • Apply consistent analytical thinking across polymers, peptides, biologics, and small molecules
  • Ensure comparability and continuity of data across platforms and studies

We believe in building balanced teams. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

Why work at 5AM Ventures

  • Culture & team: Small, collaborative team of ~28 professionals with complementary scientific, operational, and financial backgrounds. The firm emphasizes a hands‑on, partnership‑driven approach.
  • Work policy: Hybrid and remote options available for some roles (e.g., Machine Learning Engineer – remote possible; Analytical Scientist – on‑site in Emeryville; Principal Scientist – hybrid in Berkeley) jobs.lever.co/5amventures
  • Exposure: Opportunity to work directly with leading scientists and entrepreneurs, participate in investment decisions, and support portfolio companies from seed to public markets.
  • Perks: Involvement in the 4:59 incubation program offers a unique chance to shape new companies from the ground up. The firm notes that AI tools may be used in hiring, but final decisions are made by humans.
  • Employee reviews: Mixed (1.9/5.0 on LinkedIn, with low work‑life balance and compensation scores) – candidates should weigh this against the innovative nature of the work.

Application questions