At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and validate analytical methods for cutting-edge lipid and nanoparticle components.
- Company: Join NeoVac, a pioneering biotech firm revolutionising mRNA vaccine delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic start-up environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in global health by advancing innovative treatments.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree in relevant field and 3+ years of HPLC experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
NeoVac is building a new ground-breaking LNP platform to deliver better mRNA vaccines and treatments for various diseases. At NeoVac, we envision a world where mRNA vaccines and treatments are available to everyone and everywhere. We are applying science and technology to address some of the most serious conditions affecting humanity, including increasing antibiotic resistance, cancer, and viral illnesses. We aspire to be the leading life science company in this field.
RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES
- As an Analytical Scientist, you will be responsible for the development, optimisation, and validation of analytical methods to characterise lipids, PEG-polymers, nanoparticle components, process intermediates, and final drug substances.
- You will work closely with formulation chemistry, RNA teams, and manufacturing partners to support drug development from discovery through early GMP stages.
- This role requires strong laboratory autonomy, problem-solving capabilities, and a passion for high-quality data.
- Develop, optimise, and validate analytical methods for lipids, polymers, and nanoparticle components using HPLC-CAD, HPLC-UV, and LC-MS.
- Perform structural and compositional profiling of PEG-lipids, ionisable lipids, and excipients.
- Execute method validation according to ICH Q2 and support transition into cGMP workflows.
- Conduct routine and non-routine analyses: assay, related impurities, stability studies and Endotoxin analysis.
- Independently troubleshoot analytical methods and instruments.
- Interpret data, prepare reports, and present results to cross-functional teams.
- Support external CROs, CDMOs, and GMP partners as needed.
- Contribute to building analytical capability in a growing biotech environment, including SOPs, workflows, and instrument best practices.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
- Master’s degree (MSc or higher) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field.
- 3+ years hands‑on experience with HPLC in industry (pharma/biotech preferred).
- Demonstrated proficiency with HPLC-CAD (strongly preferred).
- Hands‑on experience with LC‑MS for lipid or polymer analysis.
- Proven track record of method development (minimum 3–5 methods).
- Experience with cGMP method validation (at least 2 methods independently validated).
- Prior experience working in a GMP or cGMP analytical lab.
- Strong practical skills, autonomy, and troubleshooting abilities.
- Excellent documentation practices; familiarity with ICH Q2, Q14, and relevant regulatory guidelines.
- Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative start‑up environment.
DESIRABLE SKILLS
- Experience with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), PEG‑lipids, polymers, or novel excipients.
- Experience with charged aerosol detection optimisation.
- Knowledge of DSC, Capillary Electrophoresis (CE), and Bacterial Endotoxin analysis.
- Familiarity with raw material qualification and release testing.
Application closer to this position may be considered but not guaranteed. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice, as per ever‑changing business needs.
Analytical Scientist (Biotechnology/LNP & Lipid Analytics) employer: NeoVac
At NeoVac, we pride ourselves on being an innovative employer dedicated to advancing biotechnology and improving global health through our cutting-edge LNP platform. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and autonomy, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and development in a fast-paced start-up environment. With a commitment to high-quality data and impactful science, joining NeoVac means contributing to meaningful advancements in mRNA vaccines and treatments that can change lives worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Analytical Scientist (Biotechnology/LNP & Lipid Analytics)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the biotech field, especially those working with LNPs and analytical methods. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your method development and validation work. Bring it along to interviews to demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving capabilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses, especially around your experience with HPLC and LC-MS. This will help you feel more confident when discussing your qualifications.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application directly, so don’t hesitate to submit your CV and cover letter on our platform. It shows initiative and helps us get to know you better.
We think you need these skills to ace Analytical Scientist (Biotechnology/LNP & Lipid Analytics)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with HPLC and method development. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on experience in a GMP environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re passionate about biotechnology and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our Analytical Scientist role. Keep it engaging and relevant to what we do at NeoVac.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, highlight specific examples where you've independently troubleshot analytical methods or instruments. We love candidates who can think on their feet and tackle challenges head-on!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at NeoVac!
How to prepare for a job interview at NeoVac
✨Know Your Analytical Methods
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HPLC, LC-MS, and other analytical techniques mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these methods, especially any specific projects where you developed or validated them.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've independently troubleshot analytical methods or instruments in the past. NeoVac is looking for someone who can think on their feet, so having a few solid examples will demonstrate your capability and autonomy.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Regulatory Guidelines
Since the role involves cGMP workflows and ICH guidelines, make sure you understand these regulations well. You might be asked about your experience with method validation according to ICH Q2, so be prepared to discuss this in detail.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Communication
As you'll be working closely with cross-functional teams, highlight your experience in collaborative environments. Think of instances where you effectively communicated complex data or results to non-technical team members, as this will show your ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up like NeoVac.
