SeniorResearch Associate, Chemistry R&D

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

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 seeking a Chemistry R&D Senior Research Associate to execute synthesis, purification, characterization, and QC analysis of novel modified nucleoside/nucleotide motifs. The role demands hands-on lab work with sensitive compounds and complex purification techniques.

You will contribute to upstream materials development foundational to the core technology, work in a fast-paced, cross-functional team, and document results with rigorous scientific communication.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with organic synthesis and purification techniques.
• Experience handling air- and moisture-sensitive reactions under inert atmosphere.
• Proficiency with LC-MS, NMR, IR, UV/Vis and related analytical methods.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize modified nucleosides/nucleotides using diverse synthesis techniques.
• Purify products via preparative HPLC, flash chromatography, and other methods.
• Characterize compounds using LC-MS, NMR, IR, UV/Vis, TLC; analyze data.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Air- and moisture-sensitive reactions

LC-MS

NMR

Analytical chemistry

Documentation

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

B.S. or M.S. in inorganic chemistry or related discipline

Tools

Preparative HPLC

LC-MS

NMR

IR

UV/Vis

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, and a 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

TheChemistry R&DSeniorResearch Associatewillexecutethesynthesis, purification, characterization, and QC analysis of novel modified nucleoside/nucleotide motifs that are needed for broader R&D efforts within the organization. This rolerequires hands-on experience in an industrial organic chemistry lab setting, and the chemist should be comfortable working with sensitive compounds and complex purification and QC analysis techniques.This chemist will contribute todevelopmentof crucial upstream materials that will pillar the core technology atSarmal.

Key Responsibilities

• Synthesizemodifiednucleosides/nucleotides usinga variety ofsynthesis techniques.
• Purify reaction products using preparative HPLC, flash chromatography, and otherappropriate purificationmethods.
• Characterizecompoundsusing analyticaltechniques includingLC-MS, NMR, IR, UV/Vis, TLC, and related methods.
• Optimizereaction conditions anddevelopanalytical methodsto produce high-qualitycompoundsthat meet project requirements.
• Maintainaccurateand detailed electronic laboratory notebooks and manage inventory of synthesized compounds and related materials.
• Operate,maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present findings at project and departmental meetings.

Qualifications

• Strongunderstanding of modern organic chemistry techniques in literature and inlaboratory.
• Hands-on experienceorganic chemistry synthesis techniquesincluding air- and moisture-sensitive reactions using Schlenk techniques and inert atmosphere conditions.
• Proficiencyinoperating analytical instrumentation such asHPLCandLC-MSwith the ability tointerpret results from data acquisition.
• Strong analytical chemistryskills usingLC-MS, NMR, IR, UV/Vis, TLC,and related techniques.
• Experience in chemoenzymatic reactions isaplus.
• Strong documentation and scientific communication skills.
• Strong senseof teamwork, flexibility, and enthusiasm for advancingnew technologies.

Education

• B.S. or M.S. inorganic chemistry, nucleotide/nucleic acid chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, or related discipline.
• 5–8yearspost-B.S. or2-4 years post-M.S.of relevant industry experience inorganic chemistry,nucleic acid chemistry,medicinal chemistry, or related fields.

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

• Work on cutting-edge genomics and molecular detection technologies
• Collaborate with a deeply technical, cross-functional team
• Contribute to foundational platform development at an early stage
• Have visibility into and impact on core technical and strategic decisions
• Help shape the infrastructure, culture, and future direction of the company

Closing Statement

Join us in advancing the next generation of genomic technologies and shaping the future of precision health.