Senior Scientist, Chip and Surface Chemistry

At Nautilus, our mission is to transform global health by harnessing the potential of the proteome to accelerate drug discovery and advance the era of precision and personalized medicine. We are pioneering the development of a single-molecule protein analysis platform distinguished by its exceptional sensitivity, scalability, and ease of use—aimed at democratizing access to the proteome, one of biology’s most dynamic and valuable sources of insight. Achieving this vision requires rigorous scientific innovation paired with an entrepreneurial spirit, and we are assembling a world-class team of talented builders, innovators, and visionaries from diverse fields.

We are seeking a highly qualified Senior Scientist to enhance the functionality and reliability of our platform’s flow cell and surface chemistry components. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in surface chemistry and process development, with the ability to apply their expertise across domains such as assay development, metrology, data analysis, and system integration.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with lead scientists and engineers to develop and validate processes related to nanofabrication, surface chemistry, and flow cell assembly.

• Design and implement analytical and functional methodologies to characterize and assess the effectiveness of chip patterning, surface chemistry, and flow cell assembly processes.

• Test and implement assay, flow cell, and surface chemistry improvements on Nautilus’ proteomics platform.

• Apply statistical process control methods to establish and maintain control and specification limits.

• Experience with DNA origami design, fabrication, and integration in biosensors is a plus.

Requirements

• PhD + 6 year's experience or BS/MS + 12 years

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Analytical Chemistry, Surface Science, Polymer Chemistry, or a related scientific or engineering discipline preferred.

• Prior experience supporting a commercial product line with a critical surface chemistry component is essential.

• In-depth knowledge of metal oxide passivation strategies suitable for single-molecule optical assays is required.

• Strong expertise in bioconjugation and surface passivation techniques including quantitative analysis of conjugation/passivation efficiency.

• Familiarity with strategies and methods for device qualification, functional testing, and failure analysis.

• Expert knowledge of surface characterization techniques such as ellipsometry, XPS, AFM, fluorescence microscopy, and optical single-molecule assays.

• Basic knowledge of molecular biology and biochemistry is desirable.

• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.