Research Associate / Senior Research Associate, Analytical Development and QC

Addition Therapeutics is at the forefront of biotechnology innovation, advancing transformative therapies through its proprietary PRINT™ (Precise RNA-mediated Insertion of Transgenes) platform. PRINT™ redefines genetic medicine by enabling the development of RNA-only therapeutics capable of inserting genetic elements into specific safe harbor sites within the genome.

Operating from state-of-the-art laboratories in South San Francisco, our team of experienced scientists and drug developers is driving scientific breakthroughs while cultivating a collaborative, dynamic culture committed to making a profound impact on patients' lives.

Job Description

Addition Therapeutics is seeking a motivated Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Contract) to join our Analytical Development team and help advance the development of next-generation RNA therapeutics. In this role, you will perform analytical testing of plasmid DNA, RNA, and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations while contributing to the development, optimization, qualification, and transfer of analytical methods that support process development and preclinical manufacturing.

Working in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment, you will partner closely with Process Development, Formulation, and CMC teams to generate high-quality analytical data that drives scientific decision-making and enables the development of RNA drug substances and LNP drug products.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine QC testing and analytical characterization of plasmid DNA, RNA, and RNA-loaded LNPs.
• Develop, optimize, and execute analytical methods to assess RNA identity, purity, integrity, capping efficiency, poly(A) tail length, process impurities (e.g., residual plasmid DNA, proteins, dsRNA), and LNP physicochemical properties.
• Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), and communicate findings to cross-functional teams.
• Investigate analytical deviations, troubleshoot assays and instrumentation, and support technical investigations.
• Author and maintain SOPs, analytical methods, protocols, and technical reports.
• Support analytical method qualification, validation, and technology transfer activities.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, inventory, and an organized laboratory environment.

Qualifications

Required

• Experience characterizing plasmid DNA, RNA, lipid nanoparticles, and/or related process impurities.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and technical communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with HPLC (CAD, UV, or MS), capillary electrophoresis, qPCR, ELISA, and/or plate-based biochemical assays.
• Experience with analytical method development, qualification, validation, or technology transfer.
• Experience working with RNA therapeutics, in vitro transcription (IVT), and/or lipid nanoparticle (LNP) drug products.

Education & Experience

• BS or MS in Chemistry, Molecular Biology or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or biopharmaceutical laboratories.

Compensation: The hourly rate for this position is $55-$70.

Location

South San Francisco, California

Addition Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.