Research Scientist - Computational Chemistry

Job OverviewMonarch is seeking a Computational Chemist to lead our molecular modeling efforts to predict how insects respond to olfactory stimuli. Reporting directly to the Chief Technology Officer, your work will be critical in validating the efficacy of machine-learning-predicted compounds across multiple insect species.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and apply computational models to predict the molecular interactions between compounds and olfactory receptorsConduct quantum mechanical calculations, molecular docking, and dynamics simulations to refine predictionsAnalyze data from computational experiments to prioritize compounds for lab and field validationLocationThis is a full-time, on-site position based in Oakland, CA.Why Join Monarch?Building an alternative to insecticides is one of the most important technical challenges of our time. Monarch is developing a product that works—a spatial repellent that protects crops from insects, humans from toxins, and insects from needless harm. If that mission motivates you, consider applying.https://monarchcrops.com/QualificationsPhD (or Master's degree + 7 years industrial experience) in biophysics, biochemistry, chemistry, engineering, or equivalent, with a computational emphasisSkilled in scientific programming (e.g. Python), data analytics, and reporting (experience with Pandas, NumPy, Jupyter). Proficiency in advanced molecular modeling techniques and associated software (skilled in docking, molecular dynamics simulations, rational design or ligand design). Experience with psi4, MDAnalysis, FreeSASA, AutoDock Vina, AutoDock 4. Familiarity with cheminformatics tools (Open Babel, RDKit) and basic machine learning/AI applications in computational chemistry, including protein structure prediction (AlphaFold or similar)Strong work ethicAbility to work in a creative, fast-paced environment: prototyping ideas, iteratively optimizing them, and multi-tasking. About MonarchBuilding an alternative to insecticides is one of the most important technical challenges of our time. Most fruits and vegetables are sprayed with insecticides, including organics. The top three sprayed on these crops are toxic to the human nervous system. An estimated 35 quadrillion animals are killed yearly because of their use. And farmers lose tens of billions of dollars a year because insecticides often fail at their basic job: preventing insects from destroying crops. Monarch is developing a product that works—a spatial repellent that protects crops from insects, humans from toxins, and insects from needless harm. It will work by preventing insects from landing on crops in the first place. We’re building a genomic, molecular, and behavioral dataset from the ground up. Then applying computational chemistry and machine learning tools to predict which of the billions of potential compounds in nature trigger a ‘fly away’ signal from the olfactory neurons in the antennae to the smell center in the animal’s brain. From that unexplored data space, we’ll create the most effective products to protect crops and our long-term health.Compensation Range: $150K - $185K