Research Associate II – Molecular Assay Development

Sarmal Inc

San Diego (CA)

On-site

USD 72,000 - 85,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Company-paid life insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Employee perks and discount programs

Job summary

Sarmal, Inc. in San Diego, CA, is hiring a Research Associate II to support development and optimization of molecular diagnostic assays for our pathogen detection platform.

You will execute surface-based nucleic acid detection assays, prepare reagents, run fluorescence- and CE-based experiments, and document results in a fast-paced startup setting. The role emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, collaboration with the Assay Development team, and contributing to assay optimization, experimental

Qualifications

Hands-on laboratory experience with molecular biology or biochemical assays, including 96- or 384-well plate-based workflows.
Experience with nucleic acid hybridization assays, fluorescence-based detection methods, enzymatic reactions, or surface-based capture assays.
Experience preparing master mixes, serial dilutions, reagent stocks, and low-volume liquid handling.
Familiarity with fluorescence plate readers, capillary electrophoresis, or similar analytical instrumentation.
Ability to analyze experimental data using Excel; JMP experience is a plus.
Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to maintain high-quality documentation.
Ability to independently execute experiments while collaborating in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

Execute surface-based nucleic acid detection assays using 96- and 384-well plate formats following established protocols.
Prepare master mixes, serial dilutions, oligonucleotides, enzyme reagents, and working stocks with high accuracy and reproducibility.
Perform fluorescence plate-based assays, capillary electrophoresis sample preparation, and routine instrument operation.
Analyze experimental data, summarize results, and present findings to the Assay Development team.
Assist in optimizing assay performance through systematic troubleshooting and experimental evaluation.
Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, experimental records, and SOP documentation.
Support reagent inventory, laboratory organization, and routine laboratory operations.
Contribute to assay verification, reproducibility studies, and technology transfer activities as needed.

Skills

Molecular biology

Detail-oriented

Troubleshooting

Independent experimentation

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology

B.S. with 2-4 years or M.S. with 1-2 years industry experience

Hands-on molecular biology assay experience

Tools

Excel

JMP

Flow/capillary electrophoresis equipment

Automated liquid handling systems (Hamilton/Tecan/Beckman/Opentrons)

Job description

Company Overview

Sarmal, Inc. is a San Diego–based biotechnology company developing next-generation genomics and molecular detection platforms. Our work integrates molecular biology, chemistry, and advanced systems engineering to enable faster, more precise, and more accessible genomic insights. We are a highly collaborative, R&D-driven teamoperatingin a fast-paced, early-stage environment. Our scientists and engineers work across disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and translate innovation into scalable, real-world applications. AtSarmal, we value scientific rigor, curiosity, anda buildermindset. We are looking for individuals who are energized by ambiguity, motivated by impact, and excited to help bring breakthrough technologies from concept to reality.

About the Job

TheResearch Associate IIwillsupport the development and optimization of molecular diagnostic assays for Sarmal’s pathogen detection platform. This individual will execute surface-based nucleic acid detection assays, prepare reagents and master mixes, perform fluorescence- and CE-based experiments, analyze experimental data, troubleshoot assay performance, and document results. Working closely with the Assay Development team, the successful candidate will contribute to assay optimization, experimental design, reagent qualification, and the transition of validated methods into standardized laboratory procedures.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and enjoys hands-on laboratory work in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment with evolving priorities.

Key Responsibilities

Execute surface-based nucleic acid detection assays using 96- and 384-well plate formats following established protocols.
Prepare master mixes, serial dilutions, oligonucleotides, enzyme reagents, and working stocks with high accuracy and reproducibility.
Perform fluorescence plate-based assays, capillary electrophoresis sample preparation, and routine instrument operation.
Analyze experimental data, summarize results, and present findings to the Assay Development team.
Assistinoptimizingassay performance through systematic troubleshooting and experimental evaluation.
Maintainaccuratelaboratory notebooks, experimental records, and SOP documentation.
Support reagent inventory, laboratory organization, and routine laboratory operations.
Contribute to assay verification, reproducibility studies, and technology transfer activities as needed.

Qualifications

Hands-on laboratory experience with molecular biology or biochemical assays, including 96- or 384-well plate-based workflows.
Experience with nucleic acid hybridization assays, fluorescence-based detection methods, enzymatic reactions, or surface-based capture assays.
Experience preparing master mixes, serial dilutions, reagent stocks, and low-volume liquid handling.
Familiarity with fluorescence plate readers, capillary electrophoresis, or similar analytical instrumentation.
Ability to analyze experimental data using Excel; experiencewithJMPor similar software is a plus.
Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability tomaintainhigh-quality experimental documentation.
Ability to independently execute experiments while effectively collaborating within a multidisciplinary team.
Experience with automated liquid handling systems (Hamilton, Tecan, Beckman,Opentrons, or similar) is a plus.
Experience working in a regulateddiagnostics, biotechnology, or medical device environment is desirable.

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology,or a related field.
B.S. with2-4yearsorM.S. with 1–2 yearsof relevant industry experience.
Demonstrated hands-on experience performing molecular biology or assay development experiments in an industrial or translational research environment.
Experience with nucleic acid hybridization, fluorescence-based assays, surface-based assay formats, or molecular diagnostics is strongly preferred.
Experience supporting assay optimization, troubleshooting, or analytical method development is highly desirable.

Benefits & Perks

Sarmal offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Company-paid life insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Generous paid time off
Access to additional voluntary benefits, employee perks, and discount programs
We are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and providing a strong foundation for both professional and personal success.

$72,000 - $85,000 a year

California Pay Transparency Statement.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $72,000 – $85,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, location, relevant experience, skill set, and internal equity considerations.

EEO Statement

Sarmal is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

Sarmal is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and consider all qualified candidates in accordance with applicable laws.

Why Join Sarmal