Senior Research Associate

The Role

Sail Biomedicines is seeking a motivated Senior Research Associate to join our Targeted Drug Delivery team. This role will support the development of targeted lipid nanoparticle (TNP) formulations and is a unique opportunity to be an integral part of a team dedicated to creating a transformative delivery platform for precision-targeted therapeutics.

This lab-based, onsite position requires hands-on experimental work, collaborative problem-solving, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive project success. The ideal candidate will have experience in nanoparticle formulation, ligand conjugation, analytical characterization, and robust record-keeping. You will work closely with scientists and cross-functional collaborators to execute experiments, generate high-quality data, and contribute to advancing Sail's delivery platform.

Responsibilities

LNP Formulation & Evaluation

• Synthesize, formulate, and optimize targeted nanoparticle (TNP) formulations for nucleic acid delivery.
• Prepare TNP batches to support in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Evaluate TNP performance in vitro, including transfection efficiency, potency, and stability.
• Conduct formulation screening and optimization of novel lipid and nanoparticle materials to improve delivery performance, stability, and manufacturability.
• Improve robustness and reproducibility of formulation workflows.
• Perform physicochemical and biophysical characterization of nanoparticles and conjugates using techniques such as: DLS (particle size, PDI), Zeta potential, UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, LC/MS (as applicable)
• Assist in developing and executing assays to assess encapsulation efficiency, conjugation efficiency, stability, and potency.

Data Analysis & Collaboration

• Analyze data, maintain accurate documentation, and present findings internally.
• Collaborate with biology, analytics, and computational/AI teams to support candidate and platform advancement.
• Contribute to platform development and intellectual property-supporting experiments.
• Manage multiple experiments while maintaining high laboratory standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 1-3+ years of relevant laboratory experience (industry experience preferred).
• Hands-on experience in nanoparticle formulation, bioconjugation, protein modification, or related areas preferred.
• Foundational understanding of lipid nanoparticle systems and/or nucleic acid delivery technologies.
• Understanding of experimental design principles and ability to execute and optimize established protocols.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet timelines.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Motivated and comfortable performing hands-on experimental work in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Eager to learn new technologies and contribute to innovation.
• Values transparency, respect, and thoughtful communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with one or more of the following is desirable:
• Chromatography systems (e.g., ÄKTA)
• Tangential flow filtration (TFF)
• DLS, zeta potential, UV-Vis, fluorescence-based assays
• SDS-PAGE or mass spectrometry