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. This role will support routine sample analysis, analytical method development and optimization, troubleshooting, and method transfer in close collaboration with R&D, QC, Production, and other cross-functional teams.

This position is well suited for a scientist who combines strong wet-lab skills with attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a desire to build technical expertise in emerging RNA and lipid nanoparticle technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Chromatography and Analytical Testing

• 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.

• 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, as appropriate to the method and project.
• Perform sample preparation and assist with spectral review, data processing, and interpretation under scientific guidance.
• 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, depending on project needs.
• 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 where appropriate.
• 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 to the group lead.
• 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.

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, preferably in analytical chemistry, biopharmaceutical characterization, nucleic acid analysis, or a related field.
• 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.

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.

Core Competencies

• Scientific rigor and attention to detail
• Strong hands-on laboratory execution
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Data integrity and documentation discipline
• Curiosity and willingness to learn
• Ownership and accountability
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced R&D environment

What Success Looks Like

The successful candidate will become a reliable hands-on contributor to GenScript's RNA and LNP analytical capabilities, consistently generating high-quality analytical data while developing increasing independence in HPLC/UHPLC, LC-MS, flow cytometry, and RNA/LNP characterization.

Over time, the Research Associate will be expected to contribute not only to routine testing, but also to analytical method optimization, troubleshooting, method transfer, and continuous improvement, helping strengthen GenScript's analytical capabilities for next-generation RNA and lipid nanoparticle products and services.

Perks:

• Free colleague meals during shift
• Onsite gyms

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