Research Associate – DNA Synthesis in South San Francisco, California at Mammoth DS, Inc

Atlas Data Storage is pioneering the future of information technology through cutting-edge DNA data storage solutions. Our mission is to develop a massively parallel, high-throughput, semiconductor-based storage platform by harnessing the unique properties of synthetic DNA.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate to join our dynamic R&D team. This role is central to support the development of our CMOS chip based enzymatic DNA synthesis platform and involves hands-on benchwork, experimental design, and close collaboration with scientists and engineers across different disciplines.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development and optimization of Atlas’s CMOS chip based enzymatic DNA synthesis workflow and be involved in performing multiple sub-tasks in the DNA synthesis process as needed
• Support R&D engineers to design experiments, perform testing and experimentation, and collect data to study surface, biological, chemical and fluidic processes. The duties include but are not limited to:
• • Test system components, fluidic consumables, instruments, electronics, workflows etc.
  • Support equipment setup, validation, and maintenance across lab and production systems,
  • Perform preparation and characterization of buffers and reagents by using metrics such as pH, UV-Vis spectrometer, moisture content measurement, etc.
  • Handle organic and inorganic chemicals and hazardous lab waste with safe chemical handling practices, including reagent prep using a humidity-controlled glove box
  • Use statistical methods for data analysis and present results clearly in a group setting.[PS1]

Qualifications[

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related Health Science and Biotechnology field.
• 2–4 years of industry experience in biotechnology, biomedical, or related sectors.[PS3]
• Prior experience in performing tasks within a workflow and running experiments with an instrument to characterize either the instrument, chip, or other modules involved in the process.
• Hands-on experience transitioning manual workflows to automated liquid-handling systems, to improve reproducibility and process efficiency.
• Experience working with fluidic architecture, wet-testing components in a fluidic system
• Eagerness to learn new techniques and ability to grasp concepts and techniques on the go. Desire to wear multiple hats within a small team and develop a well-rounded multi-disciplinary profile.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred:

• Theoretical understanding and hands-on experience of microscopy imaging, fluorescent microscopy, and image analysis.
• Background in molecular biology and DNA analysis techniques, such as PCR, sequencing, gel electrophoresis, UV-vis measurements.
• Experience in programming and coding: C#, C++, python-related projects, able to write simple drivers, scripts for interfacing electronic components, NI DAQ, Arduino etc[PS4]

Physical Demands Statement

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Mobility: Must be able to move about the laboratory and office environment regularly. This includes standing and walking for extended periods, often up to 6–8 hours per day.

Manual Dexterity: Must have fine motor skills and steady hands to handle delicate instruments, operate laboratory equipment, pipette accurately, and perform repetitive benchwork with precision.

Lifting/Carrying: Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally, such as boxes of lab supplies or equipment.

Visual Acuity: Must have sufficient visual acuity to read small print on labels, instrument displays, and computer monitors. Close vision, color vision,and the ability to adjust focus are required.

Communication: Must be able to communicate effectively in spoken and written English, including reading technical documents and participating in team meetings.

Environmental Conditions: Frequently exposed to typical laboratory conditions, including biological samples, hazardous chemicals, and reagents. Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles as required.

Posture: Requires frequent standing, sitting, and occasional bending or reaching over lab benches or into biosafety cabinets.