Research Associate, Analytical Development

Position Summary

GenScript 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 at our Seattle site. The successful candidate will perform hands-on laboratory work across HPLC/UHPLC, LC-MS, nano flow cytometry, and RNA/LNP analytical testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare RNA, oligonucleotide, lipid, LNP, antibody, and bioconjugate samples for analytical testing according to established procedures and experimental plans.
• Perform HPLC/UHPLC analyses using UV and/or charged aerosol detection (CAD), including sample and standard preparation, instrument sequence setup, chromatogram review, peak integration, and initial data assessment.
• 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 under the guidance of senior scientists and the group lead.
• Support LC-MS characterization of RNA, oligonucleotides, synthetic cap analogs, and related materials.
• Perform analytical testing to support characterization of mRNA, circRNA, oligonucleotides, lipids, LNPs, antibodies, and related bioconjugates.
• 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.
• Perform routine wet-lab activities requiring accurate pipetting, serial dilution, buffer and reagent preparation, concentration measurements, and sample cleanup.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and traceable experimental documentation, sample records, reagent inventories, and laboratory records.
• Support preparation and revision of SOPs, test methods, work instructions, and analytical documentation.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists and colleagues across R&D, QC, Production, and related functional teams.

Required 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.
• 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 work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.

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.