Senior Research Associate - Surface Chemistry for Biosensors

Sarmal; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Sarmal, a San Diego‑based biotechnology company, seeks a RA2/Senior RA to support production-oriented surface functionalization of a biosensor platform. This hands-on role emphasizes reliable batch execution, documented results, and scaling toward pilot/production ramp with growth into broader experimental support.

Ideal candidates have hands-on lab experience with interfacial materials and nucleotide-based chemistries, plus DOE and basic statistics, in a structured manufacturing-like

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with interfacial materials (2D surface, microarray, flow cell, nanoparticle, membranes).
• Familiarity with nucleotide-based assay chemistries or biofunctionalized surfaces (oligonucleotide/probe immobilization, hybridization, bioconjugation).
• Proven track record of independent, precise batch/production execution within a structured process or manufacturing pipeline.
• Working knowledge of DOE fundamentals and basic statistical analysis to execute and interpret tests.
• Comfort with structured documentation (batch records, ELN, GDP-style recordkeeping).

Responsibilities

• Execute surface functionalization batch runs per SOPs/batch records independently after onboarding.
• Operate core surface characterization methods (fluorescence, contact angle, EIS/CV) for batch/process characterization.
• Summarize characterization results (thickness, density, uniformity, charge) and flag trends for review.
• Support development of nucleotide-based assay consumables and biofunctionalized surface work.
• Assist with surface deposition/patterning process runs (spin-, dip-, spray-coating; plasma activation).
• Execute DOE test plans designed by scientists and apply basic statistics.
• Log data in lab notebooks/ELN and flag deviations.
• Maintain organized inventory of chemistry consumables and reagents.
• Maintain cleanroom/lab space per site protocols.
• Collaborate with in-house scientists and troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Interfacial materials

DOE fundamentals

Statistical analysis

Lab execution

Education

B.S./M.S. in Chemistry or related field

Job description

Sarmal, a San Diego‑based biotechnology company, seeks a RA2/Senior RA to support production-oriented surface functionalization of a biosensor platform. This hands-on role emphasizes reliable batch execution, documented results, and scaling toward pilot/production ramp with growth into broader experimental support.

Ideal candidates have hands-on lab experience with interfacial materials and nucleotide-based chemistries, plus DOE and basic statistics, in a structured manufacturing-like