Principal Research Associate, Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation and Analytics

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); Leiden; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity awards

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a Principal Research Associate to join the LNP Discovery team. The role focuses on formulating, purifying, and analyzing LNPs from small to large scale, collaborating with colleagues across disciplines in a fast-paced drug development environment.

The candidate will drive DoE-enabled method development, optimize yields, and advance formulation conditions. A strong background in LNP analytics and manufacturing for non-human primate studies is preferred.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in chemistry, pharmaceutical science, chemical engineering, biochemistry, or related field with 5+ years of industry experience.
• Alternatively, a bachelor’s in those fields with 7+ years of industry experience.
• Experience with DoE-driven method development and LNP analytics.

Responsibilities

• Formulate, purify, and analyze LNPs at small- and large-scale using standard protocols.
• Run LNP analytics (size, cargo encapsulation, pKa, osmolality, endotoxin) and maintain ELN records.
• Develop and optimize DoE-driven formulation and process development to improve yield and scalability.
• Present experimental designs and data in cross-functional meetings.

Skills

LNP formation

Microfluidic mixing

DoE method development

LNP analytics

Analytical techniques

Education

Master’s degree in Chemistry/Pharma/Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Pharma/Engineering

Tools

TFF purification

LC-MS

Mixer systems operation

Job description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking an experienced Principal Research Associate to join LNP Discovery team. The successful candidate will formulate, purify, and analyze LNPs from small to large scale, partnering with colleagues across disciplines in a collaborative, fast-paced setting. The candidate will drive method and process optimization to improve yield, scalability, and product quality while maintaining high standards of scientific rigor.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Formulate, purify, and analyze LNPs at small- and large-scale using industry-standard protocols. Run routine LNP analytics, including but not limited to size, cargo encapsulation efficiency, pKa, osmolality, and endotoxin. Follow SOPs and maintain clear, complete, and accurate ELN-based experimental records. Comfortable with automated formulation and analytics workflows. Troubleshoot issues that arise during protocol execution and identify opportunities for improvement. Support formulation and process development, such as mixing rate and purification conditions, to improve yield and scalability. Improve low-yield processes to meet formulation targets (e.g., DoE enabled specific delivery outcomes). Meet established deadlines and adapt to strategic changes in a dynamic, fast-paced drug development environment. Demonstrate a strong collaborative mindset to advance assigned experiments and projects smoothly and efficiently. Learn new techniques and expand technical capabilities. Present and explain experimental designs, and data clearly in team and cross-functional meetings.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

Extensive hands-on experience in various LNP formation mixing technologies, including but not limited to various microfluidic mixing and Impingement Jet Mixing devices. Ample experience and knowledge of LNP purification techniques including Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF). Proficiency in assembling and operating various mixer and TFF systems. Deep expertise and understanding in LNP process development experiments. Experience in planning and executing DoE driven method development. Experience on LNP formulation manufacturing for non-human primate studies. Complete knowledge and experience on running various LNP analytics including Size, PDI, cargo encapsulation, pKa, Osmolality, and Endotoxin measurement. Practical experience of LC-MS or other LNP assay development will be plus. Exemplary work ethic and commitment to scientific rigor. Strong communication skills.

Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 5+ years industry experience OR Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 7+ years industry experience.

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$88,200 - $132,400

Disclosure Statement: The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market‑leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week‑long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

On‑Site Designated Flex Eligibility Status: In this On‑Site designated role, you will work five days per week on‑site with ad hoc flexibility.

Company Information:

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E‑Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at [e-mail]. Help Us Achieve Our Mission

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases and conditions. The company has approved therapies for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, transfusion‑dependent beta thalassemia, acute pain and acromegaly, and it continues to advance clinical and research programs in these areas. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including IgA nephropathy, neuropathic pain, APOL1‑mediated kidney disease, primary membranous nephropathy, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ACTH‑dependent Cushing's syndrome, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, type1 diabetes, generalized myasthenia gravis, and myotonic dystrophy type1. Vertex was founded in1989 and has its global headquarters in Boston, with international headquarters in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East.

Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 17 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex's history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.

We believe our culture is one of Vertex’s greatest strengths and a key enabler of our ability to deliver transformative medicines for patients who need them. Rooted in innovation, purpose and collaboration, our culture empowers people to take smart risks, challenge conventional thinking and do their best work. The diversity of our people is central to that culture. By bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, we foster an environment where new ideas thrive, better decisions are made and breakthrough innovation is possible. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, included and connected to our shared mission, because we know that our unique culture and the collective strength of our people are what set Vertex apart.