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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, anda 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
We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Senior Scientist with expertise in biochemistry, protein science, and quantitative assay development to drive the biological and biochemical aspects of our platform. This role focuses on developing and optimizing plate-based biochemical assays, preparing and characterizing DNA-barcoded affinity reagents (antibody‑oligonucleotide conjugates), and establishingquantitative methods for protein detection using ddPCR and NGS readouts. You will work closely with our surface chemistry team to integrate biochemical assays with functionalized electrode surfaces, translating proof‑of‑concept experiments into robust, reproducible diagnostic workflows.
This role is ideal for a biochemist with strong experience in recombinant protein expression and purification, bioconjugation chemistry, and microplate-based assay development who thrives onoptimizingcomplex multi‑step workflows and enjoys bridging chemistry with biology.
Key Responsibilities
Assay Development & Optimization
Design, develop, and optimize quantitative biochemical and molecular assays for protein detection and characterization
Establish and validate assay performance, including sensitivity, specificity, dynamic range, precision, and reproducibility
Optimize assay conditions, sample preparation methods, and workflow parameters to improve performance and robustness
Develop orthogonal methods to confirm experimental findings and support data integrity
Analyze and interpret complex experimental results and communicate findings to cross‑functional teams
Protein Science & Reagent Development
Express, purify, and characterize recombinant proteins and affinity reagents
Support development and optimization of antibody‑based and nucleic acid‑enabled detection strategies
Perform protein characterization using standard biochemical and analytical techniques
Establish quality control methods and acceptance criteria for critical reagents
Maintain traceability, documentation, and inventory of key biological materials
Platform Development & Cross‑Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with chemistry, engineering, and platform development teams to integrate biochemical workflows into broader system architectures
Support development of workflows for complex biological samples and clinically relevant matrices
Troubleshoot technical challenges through systematic experimentation and root‑cause analysis
Contribute to experimental planning, technical reviews, and strategic discussions regarding platform development
Scientific Leadership
Present results and recommendations to project teams and leadership
Author technical reports, SOPs, protocols, and supporting documentation
Contribute to patent applications, publications, and scientific presentations as appropriate
Mentor junior scientists and foster scientific excellence within the organization
Evaluate emerging technologies, scientific literature, and external partners to support innovation initiatives
Qualifications
Required Experience
2+ years of relevant industry experience following completion of a Ph.D., or equivalent industry experience with an M.S.
Strong hands‑on experience in biochemical assay development and optimization
Experience with recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization
Demonstrated success designing, executing, and troubleshooting complex experiments
Experience working in multidisciplinary research and development environments
Strong scientific communication and data presentation skills
Technical Expertise
Experience in several of the following areas:
Protein expression and purification using bacterial or other recombinant systems
Chromatography techniques including affinity, ion exchange, and size exclusion methods
Protein characterization methods such as SDS‑PAGE, Western blotting, UV‑Vis, and analytical chromatography
ELISA and other plate‑based quantitative assays
Assay validation and performance characterization
Molecular biology techniques including PCR and cloning methodologies
Statistical analysis and scientific data interpretation
Scientific software tools such as GraphPad Prism, Excel, and related data visualization platforms
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with antibody‑based detection technologies or affinity reagent development
Experience with bioconjugation chemistry or biomolecule labeling approaches
Familiarity with qPCR, ddPCR, NGS workflows, or genomic detection technologies
Experience developing assays for clinical, diagnostic, or regulated environments
Knowledge of FDA Design Controls, quality systems, or ISO 13485 environments
Experience supporting intellectual property generation, publications, or grant applications
Previous mentoring or project leadership experience
Education
Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline; OR
M.S. in a relevant field with 5+ years of industry experience
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.
$140,000 - $180,000 a year
California Pay Transparency Statement.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $140,000 – $180,000, 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.
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Worksite address
san diego, CA, 92189, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.