Job Description:
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II to support the design, development, and optimization of novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations to advance our non-viral delivery platform for hepatic and extra-hepatic tissues, and enable next-generation genome editing therapies from discovery through clinical translation.
The ideal candidate will bring hands-on expertise in LNP formulation development, scale-up, analytical characterization, chemistry, and process development, with a strong passion for innovation in nucleic acid delivery technologies. This individual will join the dynamic, fast-growing, and highly collaborative CRISPR-X division and contribute to both platform technology innovation and preclinical therapeutic programs.
In this role, the candidate will work cross-functionally to develop and characterize advanced delivery systems for emerging editing modalities, helping drive transformative gene editing therapies toward patients with unmet medical needs.
Responsibilities
- Design, optimize, characterize, and execute lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations across a diverse range of lipid compositions and therapeutic payloads with minimal supervision.
- Apply hands-on expertise in LNP analytical characterization techniques, including RiboGreen assays, DLS, NanoFCM, NTA, TFF, endotoxin testing, and HPLC, as well as molecular biology methods such as DNA/RNA extraction, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, PCR, and Western blotting.
- Generate high-quality, reproducible datasets and maintain accurate, detailed experimental documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
- Perform mammalian cell culture and support in vitro studies, including transient transfection and electroporation in established cell lines. Collaborate cross-functionally with process development, analytical, and in vivo teams to support reproducible manufacturing processes and advance programs toward clinical development.
- Contribute to platform innovation by investigating LNP mechanisms of action to improve delivery efficiency, therapeutic potency, and formulation stability.
- Present experimental results, technical findings, and project updates to cross-functional teams and broader organizational audiences.
- Effectively manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast-paced, highly collaborative research environment.
Minimum Qualifications
- BS or MS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- Relevant industry or academic research experience:
- Research Associate II: 2-5+ years with a bachelor’s degree or 0-2+ years of relevant experience with a master’s degree
- Hands-on experience in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and analytical characterization for nucleic acid and targeted delivery applications.
- Strong understanding of drug delivery systems and gene editing therapeutics.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a fast-paced, results-driven, and collaborative research environment.
- Highly organized with strong scientific rigor, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with high-throughput formulation screening and knowledge of microfluidic mixing process.
- Prior experience of ionizable lipid design, bioconjugation, and process development preferred.
- Prior experience with scale-up and large-scale manufacturability development of LNPs.
- Understanding of RNA engineering, molecular biology, and hands-on experience of maintaining cells and performing in vitro transfection.
Competencies
- Collaborative – Openness, One Team
- Undaunted – Fearless, Can-do attitude
- Results Orientation – Delivering progress toward our mission. Sense of urgency in solving problems.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit – Proactive. Ownership mindset.
Due to the nature of their work, our manufacturing and lab-based positions are located fully on-site.
Research Associate II: Base pay range of $85,000 to $92,000 + discretionary bonus, equity and benefits.
The range provided is CRISPR Therapeutics’ reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount will be based on job-related and non-discriminatory factors such as experience, training, skills, and abilities.
