ABOUT LYGOS

Lygos, Inc. is a specialty chemical company that helps customers meet their highest performance and sustainability goals. Lygos’ bio-inspired solutions are designed to replace persistent and carbon-intensive chemicals with products that are better, cleaner, and cost effective. With a proprietary and fully integrated platform of the most advanced technologies across synthetic biology, industrial chemistry, and application development, a pipeline of innovative products, a first-of-its-kind Sustainable Solutions Center, and an integrated supply chain, Lygos is accelerating the world’s transition to high-performing, sustainable solutions.
We are seeking a skilled Research Associate I-II-III (level to be determined based on candidate’s experience) with 2–3 years of laboratory experience in chemical manufacturing, consumer goods, or related industries to join our growing team. As a member of the Product Development team, you will report to the Associate Director of Applications Development and contribute to the development and testing of sustainable chemical formulations and support technical service projects to meet customer and market needs. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work hands-on in the lab, collaborate across departments, and play a key role in bringing innovative, bio-based products to market. You will also get to experience working in a collaborative, team environment.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related physical science.
• 2–3 years of relevant experience in a laboratory or R&D setting within the chemical, bio-based materials, or consumer goods industries.
• Hands-on experience with chemical formulation, analytical testing, and lab instrumentation.
• Strong analytical mindset with attention to technical precision and detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Competence in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Able to perform lab-related physical tasks (e.g., standing, bending, repetitive motions occasionally).

• Product Performance Testing & Benchmarking
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• Proactively plan and execute comparative performance studies and material benchmarking.

• Accurately report, analyze, and summarize experimental data to draw technical conclusions.
• Laboratory Operations
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• Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant laboratory environment.
• Data & Knowledge Management
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• Keep detailed and accurate lab records, ensuring reproducibility and documentation of methods, procedures, and findings.

• Contribute to building a knowledge base of product performance, formulation strategies, and application insights.
• Analytical Thinking
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• Analyze and interpret data to support product development decisions, troubleshoot challenges, and refine formulations.

• Project Execution
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• Plan, prioritize, and independently complete tasks aligned with project timelines and goals.