What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Research Associate position at Meet Life Sciences?
Research Associate / Senior Research Associate – Process Sciences (xRNA)
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to support xRNA manufacturing and process development activities. This role will focus on in vitro transcription (IVT) production processes, downstream purification, process optimization, and analytical characterization to support xRNA drug substance manufacturing and scale-up activities.
The successful candidate will have hands-on experience with RNA process development, purification technologies, and analytical methods within a pharmaceutical or biotechnology environment. This is a laboratory and office-based position reporting to Process Sciences Leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform and support in vitro transcription (IVT) reactions at small and intermediate scales.
- Support process development, troubleshooting, and optimization of IVT and downstream purification processes.
- Execute IVT reactions using stirred tank and wave bioreactor systems.
- Perform analytical testing to assess RNA purity and concentration using techniques such as Fragment Analyzer and NanoDrop.
- Support chromatography purification processes, including operation and optimization of purification workflows.
- Assist with process scale-up, technology transfer, and manufacturing support activities.
- Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with GMP/GDP and internal/client requirements.
- Adhere to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), biosafety standards, and safe laboratory procedures.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Process Sciences, Manufacturing, and Analytical teams to support development and production goals.
- Perform additional duties and project support activities as assigned.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 1–2 years of relevant industry experience; or a Master’s degree with relevant hands-on experience.
- Experience supporting mRNA/xRNA drug substance process development and manufacturing activities.
- Hands-on experience with IVT process development, optimization, and scale-up activities.
- Experience operating AKTA chromatography systems and supporting purification process development.
- Knowledge and hands-on experience with Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) processes.
- Experience supporting technology transfer and/or scale-up activities within process development environments.
Technical Skills
- Experience with analytical characterization methods including:
- Fragment Analyzer / Capillary Electrophoresis (CE)
- Bioanalyzer / Gel Electrophoresis
- UV Spectroscopy
- NanoDrop analysis
- Understanding of pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of biosafety and laboratory safety requirements (BSL standards).
- Strong documentation practices and attention to detail.