Sr. RA/Associate Scientist, Analytical Quality Control

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 Sr. Research Associate / Associate Scientist will support analytical development and quality control activities for diagnostic assay reagents. This individual will perform reagent characterization, lot release testing, stability studies, and analytical method execution to ensure reagents consistently meet performance specifications. Working closely with the Reagent Development Scientist, this role will generate the analytical data needed to support product development, process transfer, and commercialization.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical quality control testing of diagnostic assay reagents and kit components.
• Execute reagent lot release testing using established analytical and functional assays.
• Support development, optimization, and qualification of QC methods for reagent characterization.
• Conduct real-time and accelerated stability studies to support shelf-life determination.
• Evaluate reagent performance over time through analytical and functional testing.
• Characterize enzymes, buffers, primers, probes, nucleotides, and other assay reagents using biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
• Support qualification of incoming raw materials and evaluate supplier lot consistency.
• Maintain reagent reference standards and QC documentation.
• Analyze QC data, identify trends, and assist in establishing acceptance criteria and specifications.
• Investigate out-of-specification (OOS) results and support root cause analyses for reagent performance issues.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and follow established SOPs and Good Documentation Practices.

Requirements

• Industry experience supporting reagent development, analytical QC, or assay development in molecular diagnostics, biotechnology, or life sciences.
• Hands-on experience performing quality control testing of biological or biochemical reagents.
• Experience conducting stability studies and supporting shelf-life evaluations.
• Familiarity with reagent lot release testing and QC documentation.
• Experience with analytical and molecular biology techniques, including:
  • UV-Vis spectroscopy
  • Fluorescence-based assays
  • PCR/qPCR and functional assay testing
  • Protein concentration and enzyme activity assays
  • Gel electrophoresis
  • HPLC/FPLC or capillary electrophoresis (preferred)
• Strong laboratory documentation and data analysis skills.
• Experience troubleshooting assay variability and investigating reagent performance issues.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis and trending of QC data.
• Experience working in ISO 13485 or other regulated environments is desirable.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment.

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 4–8 years of relevant industry experience in analytical QC, reagent development, assay development, or molecular diagnostics.
• Demonstrated experience performing analytical characterization and quality control of biological or diagnostic reagents.
• Experience supporting reagent stability studies, shelf-life determination, and lot release testing.
• Experience with molecular diagnostic assays, PCR/qPCR, sequencing, or other nucleic acid technologies is strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting product development or manufacturing in an IVD or regulated environment is a strong plus.

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

$72,000 - $85,000 a year. The anticipated salary range for this position is $72,000 – $85,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

Why join us

• 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