Research Associate II/Sr. Research Associate – Surface Chemistry

Sarmal Inc

San Diego (CA)

On-site

USD 72,000 - 85,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, & vision

Company-paid life insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Discount programs

Job summary

Sarmal, Inc. is a San Diego-based biotechnology company seeking a RA2/Senior RA to support production-oriented surface functionalization for a biosensor platform.

This hands-on role emphasizes independent batch execution, thorough documentation, and collaboration with in-house scientists in a fast-paced early-stage environment. Qualified candidates have lab experience with interfacial materials, surface chemistry, and DOE-driven testing; entry-level candidates are not considered.

Qualifications

Hands-on experience with interfacial materials and executing analytical methods (fluorescence-based uniformity assays, goniometry).
Experience with nucleotide-based assay chemistries or biofunctionalized surfaces (oligonucleotide immobilization, hybridization).
Proven ability to perform precise batch/production execution within a documented process/manufacturing pipeline.
Familiarity with DOE fundamentals and basic statistics to interpret test plans.
Comfort with structured documentation (batch records, ELN, GDP-style recordkeeping).

Responsibilities

Execute surface functionalization batch runs per SOPs, independently after onboarding.
Operate core surface characterization methods (fluorescence-based assays, contact angle, EIS/CV) for batch and process characterization.
Summarize characterization results (thickness, density, uniformity, charge) and flag trends affecting assay performance.
Support development of nucleotide-based assay consumables and biofunctionalized surface work.
Assist with surface deposition/patterning (spin-, dip-, spray-coating; plasma activation; DOE testing).
Execute DOE test plans and apply basic statistical analysis to interpret results.
Log data in lab notebooks/ELN and flag deviations from expected parameters.
Maintain inventory of chemistry consumables and reagents; keep lab space compliant with site protocols.
Collaborate with in-house scientists; troubleshoot routine issues and escalate non-routine ones.

Skills

Interfacial materials

Nucleotide assays

Batch/production execution

DOE statistics

Documentation & ELN

Education

BS/MS in Chemistry or Materials Science/Chemical Engineering/Bioengineering

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 team operating in 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.

At Sarmal, we value scientific rigor, curiosity, and a builder mindset. 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

Sarmal is seeking a RA2/Senior RA to support production-oriented execution of surface functionalization processes for a biosensor device platform. This is primarily a hands‑on execution role for someone with real industry lab experience — running batch processes against documented procedures largely independently, generating consistent and well‑documented results, and supporting the team's pilot‑scale/production ramp. Strong execution and reliability in the first phase may open the door to broader involvement in experimental/research support work as the program progresses.

Not looking for entry‑level/new‑grad candidates.

Key Responsibilities

Execute surface functionalization batch runs (SAM, silane, hydrogel, brush polymer chemistries) per written SOPs/batch records, working independently after initial onboarding.

Independently operate the team's core surface characterization methods — fluorescence‑based uniformity assays, contact angle, and EIS/CV — for routine batch and process characterization.

Summarize characterization results (thickness, density, uniformity, charge) and flag trends relevant to assay performance (signal, specificity, non‑specific binding) for scientist review.

Support development of nucleotide‑based assay consumables and other biofunctionalized surface work (e.g., oligonucleotide/probe immobilization, hybridization assays, bioconjugation in microarray/biointerface contexts).

Assist with surface deposition/patterning process runs (spin‑coating, dip‑coating, spray‑coating, plasma treatment/activation; exposure to PE‑CVD/CVD or photolithographic patterning a plus).

Execute DOE test plans designed by scientists, applying basic statistical analysis (ANOVA, regression, or similar) to interpret and summarize results; input into test design as experience builds.

Log data accurately and promptly in lab notebooks/ELN; flag and help investigate deviations from expected process parameters.

Maintain organized inventory of chemistry consumables and reagents used in daily runs.

Maintain cleanroom/lab space per site protocols.

Work collaboratively with in‑house scientists; expected to troubleshoot routine issues independently and elevate non‑routine ones.

Qualifications

Hands‑on experience working with interfacial materials (2D surface, microarray, flow cell, nanoparticle, membranes, etc.) and executing relevant analytical methods e.g. fluorescence‑based uniformity assays, goniometry, etc.

Familiarity with nucleotide‑based assay chemistries or other biofunctionalized surfaces (e.g., oligonucleotide/probe immobilization, hybridization assays, bioconjugation in microarray/biointerface contexts).

Demonstrated track record of independent, precise batch/production execution within a structured process or manufacturing pipeline.

Working knowledge of DOE fundamentals and basic statistical analysis, sufficient to execute and interpret a senior‑designed test plan.

Comfort with structured documentation (batch records, ELN, GDP‑style recordkeeping).

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, bioengineering, or related field, or equivalent industry experience + 2–4 years of hands‑on industry lab experience with surface chemistry, thin‑film deposition, or related wet‑chemistry processes

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