At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our lab team to produce innovative RNA and lipid nanoparticle drug substances.
- Company: Sail Biomedicines is revolutionising patient care with programmable medicines.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and a chance to work with cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biotech by advancing scalable manufacturing processes.
- Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. in relevant fields with hands-on lab experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Sail: Sail Biomedicines is pioneering the integrative design and deployment of fully programmable medicines to transform patient care. Sail’s platform combines first-in-class programmable circular RNA technology (Endless RNA™ or eRNA), and an industry-leading platform of programmable nanoparticles, utilizing natural components, to unlock comprehensive programming of medicines for the first time. By leveraging cutting-edge eRNA and nanoparticle deployment technology, Sail is also making unparalleled use of AI techniques to identify and design fully programmable medicines that are potent, targeted, versatile, and tunable.
The Role: Sail Biomedicines is seeking a Research Associate II to join our Preclinical Manufacturing team, supporting the production of RNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) drug substances and drug products. As part of the Technical Operations group, you will contribute directly to the development and delivery of preclinical materials for both internal and partnered programs. This is a hands-on, lab-based role requiring strong experimental execution, attention to detail, and cross-functional collaboration. You will play a key role in advancing scalable RNA and LNP manufacturing processes to enable pipeline progress.
Responsibilities:
- Support the production of RNA cargo molecules and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for preclinical studies
- Execute hands-on laboratory work involving eRNA synthesis, purification, and LNP encapsulation
- Contribute to the development, optimization, and scale-up of high-yield, high-quality RNA/LNP processes
- Operate and maintain lab-scale instrumentation, including AKTA (FPLC), TFF systems, PCR, HPLC, capillary electrophoresis, UV-Vis, and light scattering platforms
- Perform analytical characterization and quantification of RNA and other nucleic acids
- Analyze experimental data and document results in electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and technical reports
- Collaborate cross-functionally with research, analytical, and process development teams to support project goals
Required Qualifications:
- B.S. with 2+ years of industry experience or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering, or a related field
- Hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas:
- RNA/DNA production and purification
- LNP formulation and characterization
- Chromatography (e.g., AKTA/FPLC, HPLC)
- Tangential flow filtration (TFF)
- Automated liquid handling systems
- Strong understanding of experimental design, data analysis, and technical documentation
- Proficiency in core laboratory techniques, including aseptic technique, buffer preparation, and instrument operation/programming
- Experience with analytical methods such as capillary electrophoresis, UV-Vis, or light scattering is preferred
Preferred Qualifications:
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills
- Curious, proactive, and comfortable working both independently and in collaborative environments
- Effective communicator with the ability to clearly present technical data and insights
Salary Range: $75,000 - $100,000
Sail Biomedicines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Sail does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.
Research Associate II, Preclinical Manufacturing in Cambridge employer: Sail Biomedicines
Sail Biomedicines is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. Located at the forefront of biomedicine, employees benefit from cutting-edge technology and a culture that fosters professional growth through hands-on experience in pioneering RNA and nanoparticle research. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Sail provides meaningful opportunities for career advancement while contributing to transformative patient care solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate II, Preclinical Manufacturing in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Sail Biomedicines. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Sail Biomedicines!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate II, Preclinical Manufacturing in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Sail Biomedicines that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Sail Biomedicines.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Sail Biomedicines does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sail Biomedicines
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Sail Biomedicines. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Sail Biomedicines's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Sail Biomedicines. This shows your passion for the industry!
