Principal Scientist, Platform Architecture & Molecular Selectivity

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 team operating in a fast-paced, early-stage environment.

About the role

The Principal Scientist serves as the principal technical architect for our Electromodulated Protein Capture & Characterization (EPCC) platform, providing scientific leadership for the core technologies that differentiate our approach from traditional passive immunoassays. This role is responsible for defining the platform's technical strategy, designing and validating proof-of-concept experiments across multiple applications, and establishing the scientific framework spanning surface chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and clinical translation. As the company's most senior individual contributor, the Principal Scientist provides technical authority, drives innovation, de-risks new applications, and ensures successful transfer of validated technologies to product development teams for commercialization.

Responsibilities

• Proof of concept execution and technology transfer
• Platform architecture and selectivity science
• Molecular readout and amplification architecture
• Build and develop mechanisms for modeling, data, and validation
• Cross-workstream technical leadership
• Lead grant efforts, intellectual property strategies, and external engagement

Qualifications

• Demonstrated record translating molecular concepts from bench to validated assay or diagnostic platforms, across graduate and industry research
• Cross-functional technical leadership across multidisciplinary R&D teams
• Deep experience in bioconjugation and surface functionalization — directional biomolecule immobilization on solid supports (glass, ITO, gold, or comparable)
• Strong molecular biology toolkit: PCR / qPCR, primer and probe design, amplification chemistries (RCA / RPA / ddPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and barcoding / decoding schemes
• Protein engineering, preparation, and characterization (e.g., directed evolution, bioconjugation, analytical and spectroscopic characterization)
• Quantitative selectivity, sensitivity, dynamic-range, and reproducibility assessment for assays or biosensors
• Data-science and computational proficiency: Python and/or R, statistical modeling, design of experiments, and assay-data infrastructure; familiarity with machine learning and/or computer vision a strong plus

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field
• 8 years combined post-doctoral and industry experience developing electrochemical sensing or biosensing platforms

Benefits

• 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

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this position is $180,000 – $190,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

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