Savor is a Series A stage startup pursuing transformational technology to produce sustainable fats and oils for food, cosmetics, and specialty chemistry industries. We are taking an extremely ambitious bet in the climate fight and we’re looking for someone who shares our passion for the mission to build a more sustainable and just world.
We are seeking a curious, hands-on Research Associate to serve as the analytical backbone of our R&D efforts. This person will own our analytical measurement capabilities to support a fast-moving team. This is a great opportunity to grow alongside a mission-driven company at an early and exciting stage.
Responsibilities
Analytical & Wet Lab Work
Own a core set of analytical measurements and wet chemistry preparation techniques that are critical to our research and production workflows.
Operate and maintain analytical instruments; take ownership of instrument upkeep, calibration, and troubleshooting.
Execute sample measurement workflows including wet chemistry lab prep, data analysis, and results communication.
Develop, refine, and rigorously follow SOPs to ensure measurement quality and reproducibility.
Apply a skeptical, detail-oriented eye to data. Flag anomalies, question unexpected results, and escalate appropriately.
Research & Methods Development
Contribute to method development projects, helping to build and improve our analytical capabilities over time.
Collaborate across teams on research questions that go beyond routine measurement. This role involves scientific contribution, not just sample throughput.
Support process improvement efforts and assist with scale-up as needed.
Lab Operations & Communication
Contribute to smooth lab operations: maintaining stock, upholding safe laboratory protocols, and supporting a well-organized research environment.
Document and communicate results and work plans on a regular basis.
Support other projects and team members as needed.
Qualifications/Skills
Required
B.S. in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field with 1+ years of experience in a chemical lab setting.
Comfortable working safely and independently in a chemical laboratory setting.
Experience operating and maintaining analytical instruments.
Strong attention to detail and understanding of scientific data
Excellent problem-solving skills and the initiative to work through ambiguous challenges.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent time management and organizational skills.
Eagerness to learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, and grow technically over time.
Preferred
Demonstrated curiosity and aptitude: relevant research experience, academic distinction, independent projects, or other evidence of drive and intellectual engagement.
Experience with analytical chemistry techniques (e.g., GC, GC-MS, HPLC, titration, spectroscopy).
Familiarity with principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
Interest in developing methods, not just running them.
If there are items under the “Qualifications/Skills” section that you are working towards or would like to pursue, we still encourage you to apply. Our promise is that a real person is reviewing your application when received.
Logistics
This is a hands-on, on-site position based at our HQ in San Jose, CA. Savor provides competitive salary ($80k-$120k, depending on experience) and benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, a generous PTO policy, monthly wellness stipend, and ongoing learning and development opportunities.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer – we do not discriminate in hiring, promotions, or any other way on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
To apply: Please send your resume/CV to emma.regan@savor.it.
