About the roleIn this pivotal role, you will serve as the cross-functional technical lead bridging chemistry, surface science, microfluidics, software automation, and CMOS hardware. You will own the hands-on system integration of prototype testbeds, custom software scripts, and fluidic controls to reliably execute enzymatic DNA synthesis on chip. You will drive platform performance from early-stage research integration through product-facing integration, process documentation, and technology transfer.
Responsibilities- Serve as a major contributor to the development, optimization, and system-level troubleshooting of CMOS chip-based enzymatic DNA synthesis workflows and electrochemical synthesis protocols, including chip handling, hardware configuration, and software integration.
- Drive the assay-to-instrument translation of complex enzymatic synthesis and electrochemical deblock onto automated CMOS chip-based synthesis platforms.
- Execute rigorous failure-mode analysis to systematically identify, diagnose, and resolve multi-variable root causes across hardware, fluidics, surface chemistry, and electrochemistry.
- Establish experimental and operational strategies to maximize enzymatic DNA synthesis workflow robustness, repeatability, and synthesis fidelity on integrated breadboard and prototype testbeds.
- Collaborate closely with hardware engineering and software teams to improve, and iterate prototype testbeds, integrating chemistry, fluidics, and hardware systems.
- Analyze complex experimental data using molecular biology, organic chemistry techniques, and automated scripting tools.
- Drive technology transfer from early-stage research integration to product-facing integration.
- Help define and execute scientific and technical objectives aligned with company goals, while mentoring junior research associates and engineers.
Qualifications- Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S.) in Electrochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Fluidic Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
- Minimum 8 years of industry R&D experience for candidates holding a Master's degree or minimum 5 years of industry R&D experience for candidates holding a Doctoral degree.
- Demonstrated track record of leading assay-to-instrument translation, taking novel bio-hardware, microfluidics, surface chemistry, or single-molecule/microarray platforms through early research into product development.
- Extensive experience in system-level troubleshooting and failure-mode analysis across complex bio-instrumentation, fluidics, and bio-electronic interfaces.
- Proven capability in evaluating and optimizing biological workflow robustness to ensure reproducible performance across automated platforms.
- Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary project teams or direct management and mentorship of junior scientist and research associates.
- Creative and detail-oriented personality with exceptional analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Exceptional collaboration skills and ability to work seamlessly in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications & Bonuses- Deep, hands-on expertise in advanced electrochemical techniques (e.g., cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, ac voltammetry, chronoamperometry) and sensor characterization on solid substrates.
- Direct hands-on experience with enzymatic DNA synthesis chemistries, oligonucleotide microarray platforms, or single-molecule biosensing instruments.
- Practical proficiency with Python, or software scripting tools for instrument automation, liquid handling, hardware control, or pipeline data processing.
The pay range for this role is:
150,000 - 175,000 USD per year (HQ)
