Methods of addressing a biomolecule to a selectively addressable electrode are described. A permeation layer overlying a plurality of selectively addressable electrodes is provided. The permeation layer includes a reactive group that is adapted to bond to a biomolecule and that requires activation through a chemical transformation before bonding to the biomolecule. At least one selectively addressable electrode is biased such that a pH change occurs in an overlying solution of the at least one selectively addressable electrode. The reactive group in a portion of the permeation layer above the at least one selectively addressable electrode is then chemically transformed to an activated reactive group as a result of the pH change. A biomolecule is then bound to the permeation layer overlying the at least one selectively addressable electrode through the activated reactive group.