Research Associate I/II - Microbiology & Molecular Biology

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 team operating in 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.


At Sarmal, we value scientific rigor, curiosity, and a builder mindset. We are looking for individuals who are energized by ambiguity, motivated by impact, and excited to help bring breakthrough technologies from concept to reality.

\n About the Job

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our R&D team developing innovative diagnostic technologies. The successful candidate will support the development, optimization, and analytical evaluation of molecular and microbiological assays for diagnostic applications.

This role will involve hands-on laboratory research, including microbial culture, nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, sample preparation, and analysis of biological specimens. The ideal candidate will have strong microbiology and molecular biology skills, excellent experimental judgment, and an interest in translating laboratory technologies into reliable, scalable diagnostic products.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform microbiological workflows, including aerobic and anaerobic culture, microbial identification, dilution series preparation, enumeration, Gram staining, and microorganism characterization.

• Perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, nucleic acid purification and quantification/quality assessment using methods such as Qubit, NanoDrop, qPCR-based quantification, or equivalent methods.

• Develop and optimize sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction workflows for clinical or biological specimens, including host/background depletion, microbial lysis, enrichment/concentration, nucleic acid purification, and recovery.

• Design, execute, and optimize experiments supporting the development of molecular and microbiological diagnostic assays.

• Prepare and characterize biological samples, controls, standards, and reference materials used in assay development.

• Generate, organize, and analyze experimental data, and communicate results to project teams.

• Maintain detailed laboratory records and ensure experimental work is performed according to established protocols and quality practices.

• Contribute to the development and optimization of standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and assay documentation.

• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, automation teams, and other R&D team members to integrate sample preparation and biological assays with diagnostic platforms and technologies.

• Support technology transfer, assay verification/validation, and scale-up activities as projects progress toward product development.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on laboratory experience in microbiology including aseptic technique, culture, isolation, Gram staining, identification, enumeration, and characterization of microorganisms, including aerobic and anaerobic organisms.

• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and nucleic acid purification. Experience with nucleic acid quantification and quality assessment using methods such as Qubit, NanoDrop, qPCR-based quantification, or equivalent methods.

• Experience developing, optimizing, or troubleshooting sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction workflows from biological or clinical sample matrices.

• Experience with the safe handling and culture of microorganisms in a BSL-2 laboratory environment.

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate and thorough laboratory documentation.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary R&D team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience culturing and characterizing clinically relevant bacterial and/or fungal organisms, including aerobic and anaerobic organisms.

• Experience with nucleic acid extraction from complex biological matrices, particularly whole blood or other clinical specimen types.

• Experience with PCR, qPCR, multiplex PCR, isothermal amplification, or other nucleic acid amplification technologies.

Nice to have but not required

• Experience preparing microbial dilution series.

• Familiarity generating contrived or mock clinical samples by spiking microorganisms into relevant biological matrices.

• Experience with automated or semi-automated nucleic acid extraction platforms, such as KingFisher or comparable magnetic bead-based extraction systems.

• Experience evaluating sample preparation or assay performance, including microbial/nucleic acid recovery, analytical sensitivity, reproducibility, matrix effects, and inhibition.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related discipline.

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.

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$72,000 - $85,000 a year

California Pay Transparency Statement.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $72,000 – $85,000, 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.

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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.