Analytical Scientist (Biotechnology/LNP & Lipid Analytics)

Neovac; Vale of White Horse; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology company in the Vale of White Horse is seeking an Analytical Scientist to develop and validate methods for lipid and polymer analysis. This role involves working closely with formulation chemistry and manufacturing partners to support drug development. Ideal candidates will have at least 3 years of hands-on HPLC experience in the pharma or biotech industry, an MSc in a related field, and strong problem-solving skills. Join a fast-paced and innovative environment committed to improving mRNA treatments.

Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on experience with HPLC in pharma/biotech.
• Demonstrated proficiency with HPLC-CAD.
• Experience with cGMP method validation and analytical lab processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimise, and validate analytical methods.
• Conduct routine and non-routine analyses.
• Support drug development from discovery through early GMP stages.

Skills

HPLC proficiency

Analytical problem-solving

Data documentation

Method development

Education

Master’s degree in Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC-CAD

LC-MS

Job description

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.