Research Associate (I-II-III) - Application Development

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 Application 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.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Product Performance Testing & Benchmarking
• Proactively plan and execute comparative performance studies and material benchmarking.
• Accurately report, analyze, and summarize experimental data to draw technical conclusions.
• Laboratory Operations
• 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
• 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
• Analyze and interpret data to support product development decisions, troubleshoot challenges, and refine formulations.
• Project Execution
• Plan, prioritize, and independently complete tasks aligned with project timelines and goals.

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).

Nice-to-haves (but not required):

• Familiarity with ingredients used in homecare, personal care, or industrial cleaning products (e.g., enzymes, surfactants, solvents).
• Experience in sustainable or bio-based chemistry is a strong plus.

Compensation and Benefits: Lygos offers highly competitive salaries, stock options, bonus and benefits, including medical and dental insurance, unlimited paid time off, and 401(k).

Salary Range: $70,000-$90,000 (RA I - RA III Range) -  Actual pay will vary based on various factors, including but not limited to location, skill, experience, and performance. 

The benefits and stock purchase described above are subject to the terms and conditions of any governing plans, policies, practices, agreements, or other materials or documents as in effect from time to time, including but not limited to terms and conditions regarding eligibility.

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.  Lygos may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa now or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  

Location information:

This position is for our Hayward, CA location. The employee must work on-site at this location 5 days per week. Willing to travel up to 5% of the time.

There is no relocation assistance offered at this time.