About the Role
This role offers a unique opportunity to join a talented team focused on solving critical challenges in molecular data storage. As a Senior Research Associate in technology development, you will be responsible for the surface modification and characterization of semiconductor substrates, ensuring a continuous supply of high-quality substrates and developing next-generation surface chemistry protocols. The ideal candidate is a rigorous, detail-oriented experimentalist with deep expertise in surface metrology and a passion for innovation in an interdisciplinary environment.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, functionalize, and provide semiconductor substrates for daily experimental workflows.
- Develop and optimize novel surface chemistry and bioconjugation protocols.
- 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 synthesis, engineering, sequencing, and bioinformatics teams.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Must be able to move about the laboratory and office environment regularly, including standing and walking for extended periods (up to 6–8 hours per day).
- Must have fine motor skills and steady hands for handling delicate instruments, operating laboratory equipment, pipetting accurately, and performing repetitive benchwork with precision.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally.
- Must have sufficient visual acuity for reading small print, instrument displays, and computer monitors, including close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles as required.
Skills
- Surface modification
- Surface characterization
- Surface metrology
- Ellipsometry
- Contact angle measurements
- AFM
- Surface chemistry
- Bioconjugation
- Organic lab techniques
- Data analysis
- Scripting
- Analytical skills
- Verbal communication
- Written communication
- Collaboration skills
Location
- South San Francisco
Work Type
- Onsite
- Laboratory
- Office
Experience Level
- Senior
-
5 years of relevant industry experience (with Bachelor's)
- 1-3 years of experience (with Master's)
Education Level
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree
