Sr. Scientist: Electrochemical DNA Synthesis in South San Francisco, California at Mammoth DS, Inc

Atlas Data Storage is redefining the boundaries of information technology. We are developing a high-throughput, massively parallel platform that uses synthetic DNA as the ultimate storage medium. By integrating advanced enzymatic synthesis with CMOS-based semiconductor technology, we are building a bridge between biological molecules and digital data.

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on scientist with deep expertise in Electro-chemistry and Surface Chemistry to aggressively execute micro-scale boundary engineering that makes DNA-on-a-chip synthesis possible. Your primary goal is to master the electrochemical environment within our chip architecture to ensure massively parallel and high-fidelity DNA synthesis.

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on scientist with deep expertise in Electro-chemistry and Surface Chemistry to aggressively execute micro-scale boundary engineering that makes DNA-on-a-chip synthesis possible. Your primary goal is to master the electrochemical environment within our chip architecture to ensure massively parallel and high-fidelity DNA synthesis.

Responsibilities

This is a heavily bench-intensive role. While you will collaborate with the technical leadership team on strategy planning, your primary impact lies in your ability to step up to the bench, design robust protocols, and physically drive the execution of our technical strategy.

• Design and implement high-throughput experiments plans set by the group to characterize electrochemical reactions occurring at the micro-electrode interface.
• Develop novel electrochemical methodologies to manage molecular processes within confined, high-density electrode arrays.
• Hands-on development and testing of surface passivation strategies to combat pro-tein fouling and non-specific binding during enzymatic processes.
• Effectively work within multidisciplinary teams and routinely partner with protein biochemists, microfluidics and CMOS specialists to optimize the conditions for enzyme-driven DNA synthesis.
• Document technical breakthroughs through rigorous reporting and present findings to our cross-functional R&D leadership.
• Be both a strong individual contributor as well as a collaborative team member.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrochemistry, Material Science, Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum 2 years (Ph.D.) or 4 years (M.S.) of post-graduate experience in an industry R&D setting or applied research environment, with a proven track record of heavy, hands-on bench contribution.
• Expertise in electrochemistry and electrochemical techniques pertaining to biodetectors, biosensors, and bioelectronic interfaces.
• Practical experience managing electrochemical behavior in restricted volumes or within micro-fabricated systems.
• Experience in semiconductor electrochemistry or building electrochemical apparatus for synthesis, processing, or analysis is preferred.
• Experience with a wide range of standard analytical techniques, fluorescence-based assays and surface characterization techniques.
• Foundational wet-lab comfort with DNA biochemistry, enzymatic reactions, or fluorescence-based detection methods.
• Experience collaborating closely with engineering teams to translate scientific findings into applications
• A proven ability to communicate scientific concepts to engineers and biochemists alike to achieve shared product goals.

Technical Execution Bonuses

• Robust, hands-on experience with fabricating, functionalizing, and optimizing electrode surfaces (gold/platinum), SAMs formulation, characterization of thin films, and surface-bound bioassays.
• Extensive practical experience diagnosing and solving protein fouling chemistry on micro-fabricated systems.

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.