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
Salary Range: $70,000 - $105,000 
