Staff Scientist - Computational Chemistry (Promethium)

Description

Promethium is growing our world-class team, and we are looking for a talented computational chemist to join as Staff Scientist. This is a unique opportunity to join a high-performing team and an industry-leading product whose customers are at the leading edge of scientific innovation. In this role, you will build the key technologies that further the mission of Promethium to help our customers develop winning molecules faster! You will directly develop new algorithms, methodologies, and novel computational methods to be used in the Promethium platform. This is a high-impact role that reports directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

This is a remote-first role based in the United States and requires less than 20% travel.

Responsibilities

Role

As a Staff Scientist, you will:

• Develop innovative new computational methods and protocols that seamlessly combine AI/ML methods with the fast Density Functional Theory (DFT) code underpinning Promethium's core capabilities
• Write production-quality code in Python
• Work closely with engineering and product teams to ship new capabilities within the Promethium platform
• Communicate regularly with customers to understand their needs and help them successfully use Promethium in their day-to-day work
• Write blog posts, and present at conferences, workshops, and industry events

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• PhD degree in Chemistry required, with a specialization in computational chemistry
• 8+ years experience as a researcher or staff scientist
• Expertise in Quantum Chemistry including Density Functional Theory (DFT), QM/MM and semi-empirical methods
• Familiarity with the latest AI/ML methods for computational chemistry including Machine Learning Interatomic Potentials (MLIPs)
• Ability to independently execute as a highly motivated individual in a fast-moving startup environment
• Expertise programming in Python and utilizing scientific libraries
• Track record of playing a key role in successful research projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Obsessed with rigor and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Deep familiarity with computational methods for drug discovery, specifically for small molecule protein-ligand binding,
• Track record contributing to open source projects and demonstrated leadership in the computational chemistry space.
• Programming expertise in C++ and GPU-programming with CUDA.

Compensation

Base Salary:

$180,000 - $230,000 per year

In addition to competitive base salaries, qualified candidates are eligible for participation in a corporate bonus program and equity.

Salary may vary by location. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, competencies, experience, market demands, internal parity, and relevant education or training.

Benefits, PTO & Equity:

We are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Health Coverage: Company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for you and your dependents.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Available for eligible plans.
• Disability Insurance: Company-paid long-term disability coverage.
• Basic Life Insurance: $50,000 company-paid coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to counseling, coaching, and life resources.
• Equity: Ownership in a growing startup.
• Retirement Plans: 401(k) with Traditional and Roth options.
• PTO: Discretionary unlimited PTO (we trust you to take the time you need).
• Holidays: 12 annual paid holidays.
• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Remote-First Environment: Work primarily remotely with flexibility and support to thrive, within the United States.

About You

About QC Ware

QC Ware is a quantum computing software company headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, dedicated to making quantum computing accessible to data scientists through innovative algorithms and enterprise solutions.

Promethium, a part of QC Ware, is an enterprise SaaS company specializing in quantum-inspired computational chemistry. Promethium empowers customers in pharmaceutical, chemicals, and materials industries to solve complex molecular research and design challenges. Using high-performance GPU-based code, Promethium modernizes chemistry simulations, enabling faster, more accurate design and production of new materials and drugs.

An Important Note

Don't meet every single requirement? At Promethium, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic team. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly align with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might be exactly the person we're looking for to join this role or others.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the differences that make us stronger. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Difference makes us better. Join us.