Research Associate, Analytical Development

About the Role

BioSpace is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Associate, Analytical Development to support the development, qualification, and routine execution of analytical methods for RNA, lipids, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and related bioconjugates.

Key Responsibilities

• Chromatography and Analytical Testing

• Prepare RNA, oligonucleotide, lipid, LNP, antibody, and bioconjugate samples for analytical testing.

• Perform HPLC/UHPLC analyses using UV and/or charged aerosol detection (CAD).

• Support chromatographic methods for evaluating RNA purity, lipid identity and purity, lipid composition, residual components, and related product-quality attributes.

• Assist with preparative chromatography, fraction collection, sample tracking, and evaluation of purification fractions for RNA and related development projects.

• Support analytical method development, optimization, troubleshooting, and transfer.

• LC-MS Characterization

• Support LC-MS characterization of RNA, oligonucleotides, synthetic cap analogs, and related materials.

• Assist with characterization of attributes such as molecular identity, capping efficiency, and poly(A) characteristics.

• Perform sample preparation and assist with spectral review, data processing, and interpretation.

• Support troubleshooting of sample-preparation, chromatographic, mass-spectrometric, and data-processing issues.

• RNA and LNP Analytical Development

• Perform analytical testing to support characterization of mRNA, circRNA, oligonucleotides, lipids, LNPs, antibodies, and related bioconjugates.

• Support assays evaluating RNA attributes such as concentration, purity, integrity/fragmentation, aggregation, and residual process-related components.

• Support characterization of LNP-related attributes, including lipid composition and purity and residual/free components associated with LNP conjugation or formulation processes.

• Perform routine sample cleanup, dilution, buffer preparation, and analytical sample processing using appropriate RNase-free techniques.

• Nano Flow Cytometry and Targeted LNP Characterization

• Prepare fluorescently labeled samples, standards, and appropriate experimental controls for flow-cytometry analysis.

• Perform routine flow cytometer setup, instrument QC, sample acquisition, and application of established analysis and gating strategies.

• Support characterization of antibody-decorated or targeted LNPs, including evaluation of labeling and conjugation-related attributes.

• Assist with optimization and troubleshooting of flow-cytometry-based analytical workflows.

• Laboratory Execution and Data Analysis

• Perform routine wet-lab activities requiring accurate pipetting, serial dilution, buffer and reagent preparation, concentration measurements, and sample cleanup.

• Process analytical results using relevant instrument software and Microsoft Excel or equivalent data-analysis tools.

• Review results for consistency and data quality, prepare clear data summaries, and promptly communicate unexpected findings, deviations, or instrument issues.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and traceable experimental documentation, sample records, reagent inventories, and laboratory records.

• Laboratory Operations and Cross-Functional Support

• Support preparation and revision of SOPs, test methods, work instructions, and analytical documentation.

• Assist with routine instrument maintenance, laboratory organization, and method-transfer activities.

• Collaborate effectively with scientists and colleagues across R&D, QC, Production, and related functional teams.

• Follow applicable laboratory safety procedures, chemical-handling requirements, and site EHS policies.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of analytical workflows, laboratory efficiency, data quality, and technical capabilities.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Hands-on experience with HPLC/UHPLC and/or LC-MS, including sample preparation, execution of established analytical methods, and basic chromatographic or analytical data review.
• Practical experience with flow cytometry, including fluorescent sample preparation, use of appropriate controls, data acquisition, and basic gating or data interpretation.
• Strong fundamental wet-lab skills, including accurate pipetting, solution and buffer preparation, dilution calculations, sample handling, and contamination control.
• Ability to follow written procedures and experimental protocols accurately and maintain clear, complete, and traceable laboratory records.
• Ability to use Microsoft Excel or similar software to organize, analyze, and summarize experimental data.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn new analytical technologies.
• Ability to manage multiple sample batches and experimental priorities while communicating progress, results, and technical issues clearly.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• 0-5 years of relevant academic or industry laboratory experience, preferably in analytical chemistry, biopharmaceutical characterization, nucleic acid analysis, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline.
• Previous experience working with mRNA, circRNA, oligonucleotides, lipids, LNPs, antibodies, or bioconjugates.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC-CAD, SEC, ion-pair reversed-phase chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, preparative HPLC, or RNA gel/capillary electrophoresis.
• Experience with LC-MS characterization of nucleic acids, oligonucleotides, cap structures, lipids, or related biomolecules.
• Experience with small-particle or nanoparticle flow cytometry, particularly platforms such as the Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX nano.
• Familiarity with Agilent or Waters HPLC/UHPLC systems, Thermo Scientific LC-MS platforms, or related analytical instrumentation.
• Experience using analytical software such as Empower, Xcalibur, BioPharma Finder, or CytExpert.
• Understanding of analytical method development, qualification, transfer, or troubleshooting in an R&D, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, CRO, or CDMO environment.

Compensation

Salary range: $65,000 – $80,000 total compensation, including bonus, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match that vests fully on day one.
• Paid parental leave after three (3) months of employment.
• Paid time off policy that includes vacation time, personal time, sick time, floating holidays, and company holidays.
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
• Life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Legal assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Commuter benefits, well-being initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs.