Sr. Research Associate, Surface Chemistry

Atlas Data Storage • South San Francisco, CA

5h • $95,000 - $125,000 • Onsite

About The Position

This is a unique opportunity to join a talented team of scientists and engineers focused on solving critical challenges in molecular data storage. As a Senior Research Associate in technology development, you will be primarily responsible for the surface modification and characterization of semiconductor substrates critical to our core technology. You will run day-to-day experiments to ensure the continuous supply of high-quality substrates for the broader team, while also developing and optimizing next-generation surface chemistry protocols. The ideal candidate is a rigorous and detail-oriented experimentalist with deep expertise in surface metrology and a passion for driving innovation in a highly interdisciplinary environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with >5 years of relevant industry experience, or Master's degree with 1-3 years of experience in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Deep, hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and executing surface chemistry protocols on solid substrates.
• Demonstrated expertise in surface metrology techniques, specifically including ellipsometry, contact angle goniometry, electrochemical characterization, and AFM.
• Must be a creative and detail-oriented person with excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Exceptional collaboration skills and ability to work seamlessly in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with bioconjugation and basic organic lab techniques is a plus.
• Strong data analysis and scripting experience is highly desirable.
• Experience in a biotech or pharma R&D environment is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, functionalize, and provide semiconductor substrates to the broader team for daily experimental workflows.
• Develop and optimize novel surface chemistry and bioconjugation protocols to improve the performance and reliability of our high-density platforms.
• Execute routine and advanced surface metrology to characterize substrates, including ellipsometry, contact angle measurements, AFM, and other relevant surface analysis techniques.
• Process and analyze experimental data to guide surface chemistry optimization and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Maintain detailed and meticulous records of all experimental work and analysis.
• Effectively communicate experimental results, data analysis, and next steps to team members and leadership.
• Act as a strong individual contributor while thriving in cross-functional collaborations with our synthesis, engineering, sequencing, and bioinformatics teams.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior