Product Development Chemist

SunFly Brands, Inc. (SunFly) is a venture and grant-funded startup developing SPF indicators for sunscreens.  The Sun Stampä contains a UV-sensitive ink that is stamped onto skin, sunscreen is applied over it, and the stamp will indicate by changing color if a user has applied enough sunscreen and when to reapply.  SunFly is currently in deep dialogue with the top 3 leading U.S. sunscreen brands and 2 of the 3 leading global brands who see our technologies’ potential to better protect their customers while driving sunscreen consumption and sales up to 4x.

Overview

This position will be primarily responsible for nanoencapsulation of our chromophore and the research, formulation and validation of our cosmetic inks, as well as matching the ink system to a suitable stamping/applicator system according to specific performance and shelf-life criteria. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in formulation chemistry, analytical spectroscopy with 4 years of lab experience (inclusive of both corporate and academic work) and maintain a proactive, goal-oriented, and independent work ethic. The candidate will work closely with the CEO/PI of the company and attend weekly technical calls with the Technical Team to report out findings and collaboratively define the product roadmap and timelines.  Startup experience is a benefit, but not required.

Responsibilities

·      Maintain a startup mentality, sense of urgency and exhibit proactive and creative problem-solving skills.

·      Achieve agreed upon technical milestones in a timely and professional manner.

·      Anticipate technical roadblocks and surface plans to address them in realtime.

·      Participate in weekly Technical Team meetings and present progress reports. 

·      Interface with SunFly staff, consultants and strategic partners on technical matters.

·      Document detailed lab and research notes on shared drive.

·      Report on NSF grant billables including materials, equipment, usage fees, etc.

·      Lab management – ordering supplies, cleaning glassware, chemical waste disposal, maintaining chemical inventory, etc.

·      Testing our skin-safe inks on their own skin using UV lamps and sunscreens.

Requirements:

·      Ideally 4 years wet lab experience

·       Must live in, or be willing to relocate to, the Seattle area

·      See https://www.i-perf.org/#/eligibility

Salary: $78,000/year plus health care benefits and relocation costs if needed (see https://www.i-perf.org/#/benefits for full details).  Generous stock option package and 2-weeks paid vacation per year. 

Interested parties should contact:

Michael Croix, CEO/PI of SunFly Brands, Inc. at michael@sunflybrands.com