Research Associate II/Sr. Research Associate – Surface Chemistry

Sarmal Inc•San Diego, CA

4d•$72,000 - $85,000

About The Position

Sarmal, Inc. is seeking a Research Associate II or Senior Research Associate to support production-oriented surface functionalization processes for a biosensor device platform. This is a hands-on execution role for a candidate with industry laboratory experience who can independently run batch processes according to documented procedures, generate consistent and well-documented results, and support the team's pilot-scale and production ramp. Strong execution and reliability may lead to broader involvement in experimental and research support as the program progresses. Entry-level and new-graduate candidates are not sought. The role works across surface chemistry, molecular biology, and biosensor development in a collaborative, fast-paced, early-stage R&D environment. The associate will perform surface functionalization and characterization, support biofunctionalized assay consumables and deposition or patterning processes, execute scientist-designed DOE plans, document work, and maintain laboratory and materials organization. The position requires independent troubleshooting of routine issues and escalation of non-routine issues to in-house scientists.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with interfacial materials such as 2D surfaces, microarrays, flow cells, nanoparticles, or membranes, and relevant analytical methods such as fluorescence-based uniformity assays or goniometry.
Familiarity with nucleotide-based assay chemistries or other biofunctionalized surfaces, including oligonucleotide/probe immobilization, hybridization assays, or bioconjugation in microarray/biointerface contexts.
Demonstrated ability to independently and precisely execute batch or production work 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, including batch records, ELN, and GDP-style recordkeeping.
B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
2–4 years of hands-on industry laboratory experience with surface chemistry, thin-film deposition, or related wet-chemistry processes, or equivalent industry experience as described in the education qualification.
Not an entry-level or new-graduate role.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to PE-CVD/CVD or photolithographic patterning.
Experience contributing to experimental or research support work as program needs develop.

Responsibilities

Execute surface functionalization batch runs involving SAM, silane, hydrogel, and brush polymer chemistries according to written SOPs and batch records, working independently after onboarding.
Operate fluorescence-based uniformity assays, contact angle measurements, and EIS/CV for routine batch and process characterization.
Summarize characterization results, including thickness, density, uniformity, and charge, and flag trends related to assay performance for scientist review.
Support development of nucleotide-based assay consumables and other biofunctionalized surface work, including oligonucleotide/probe immobilization, hybridization assays, and bioconjugation in microarray or biointerface contexts.
Assist with surface deposition and patterning process runs, including spin-coating, dip-coating, spray-coating, and plasma treatment or activation.
Execute scientist-designed DOE test plans, apply basic statistical analysis such as ANOVA or regression to interpret and summarize results, and contribute to test design as experience builds.
Record data accurately and promptly in laboratory notebooks or an ELN, and flag and help investigate deviations from expected process parameters.
Maintain organized inventory of chemistry consumables and reagents used in daily runs.
Maintain cleanroom and laboratory spaces according to site protocols.
Collaborate with in-house scientists, troubleshoot routine issues independently, and escalate non-routine issues.