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Lipid Nanoparticles Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scientist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48/hr

Execute and optimize the synthesis and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies under the guidance of senior formulation scientists.

Execute and optimize the synthesis and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies under the guidance of senior formulation scientists.

Design, formulate and optimize novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) compositions through different production methods and scale. * Perform comprehensive analytical characterization of nanoparticles ...

Scientist II, LNP

South Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Design, formulate and optimize novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) compositions through different production methods and scale. * Perform comprehensive analytical characterization of nanoparticles ...

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Lipid Nanoparticles information

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$34.5K

$98.8K

$155K

How much do lipid nanoparticles jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for lipid nanoparticles in the United States is $98,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lipid Nanoparticles vs Pharmaceutical Research Associate?

AspectLipid NanoparticlesPharmaceutical Research Associate
Required CredentialsDegree in pharmacy, chemistry, or related field; knowledge of nanotechnologyDegree in pharmacy, chemistry, biology, or related field; research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on drug delivery and nanotechResearch labs, clinical trial settings, pharmaceutical companies
Industry UsageDeveloping nanocarrier systems for drugs and vaccinesSupporting drug development, conducting experiments, data analysis

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in pharmaceutical settings. Lipid Nanoparticles specialists focus on designing and manufacturing nanocarrier systems, while Pharmaceutical Research Associates support broader research activities. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the pharmaceutical industry.

What are some common challenges faced by scientists working with lipid nanoparticles in pharmaceutical development?

One of the primary challenges in working with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) is ensuring consistent particle size and stability during formulation and scale-up, as these factors critically affect drug delivery and efficacy. Scientists also navigate the complexities of optimizing encapsulation efficiency and minimizing toxicity, which often involve iterative testing and collaboration with analytical, process development, and quality control teams. Staying up-to-date with regulatory guidelines and rapidly evolving LNP technologies is essential, making adaptability and strong communication skills especially valuable for professionals in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lipid Nanoparticle Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lipid Nanoparticle Scientist, you need a solid background in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, or a related field, often with an advanced degree (MSc/PhD), and experience in nanoparticle formulation and drug delivery. Expertise with analytical instruments like HPLC, DLS, and electron microscopy, as well as familiarity with regulatory guidelines and formulation software, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help professionals excel in research and development settings. These competencies are crucial for developing safe, effective lipid nanoparticle-based therapeutics and ensuring successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are lipid nanoparticles?

Lipid nanoparticles are tiny spherical particles made from lipids, which are fat-like molecules. They are used as delivery systems for drugs, vaccines, and genetic material because they can protect sensitive substances and help them reach target cells in the body. Lipid nanoparticles have become especially important in the development of mRNA vaccines, such as those used for COVID-19, where they help transport the mRNA into human cells safely and efficiently.
More about Lipid Nanoparticles jobs
What cities are hiring for Lipid Nanoparticles jobs? Cities with the most Lipid Nanoparticles job openings:
What states have the most Lipid Nanoparticles jobs? States with the most job openings for Lipid Nanoparticles jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lipid Nanoparticles job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 34% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,799 per year, or $47.5 per hour.
Senior/ Principal Scientist, Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry

Senior/ Principal Scientist, Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry

Genentech

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$143K - $265K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Genentech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

We advance science so that we all have more time with the people we love.

A healthier future. It's what drives us to innovate. To continuously advance science and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need today and for generations to come. Creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love. That's what makes us Genentech!

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist or Principal Scientist with a strong record of laboratory innovation and technical depth to join our Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry (SMAC) group.

This role is ideal for a scientist who thrives at the bench and is excited to solve complex analytical challenges, while contributing to advancing programs spanning discovery through clinical development.

The Scientist will play a key role in advancing a diverse pipeline including synthetic small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides, and drug delivery systems (e.g., lipid nanoparticles, polymer nanoparticles), working in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment:

  • Designing, developing, and troubleshooting analytical methods from first principles, including sample preparation, method optimization, and data interpretation with state-of-the-art technologies including but not limited to high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), UHPLC, 2D-LC/MS, GC/MS, light scattering, spectroscopy, rheology, microscopy.

  • Applying and deepen expertise in HRMS, MS/MS, and/or chromatographic separations to solve complex analytical problems during drug discovery/development.

  • Contributing to regulatory submissions, including authoring sections and preparing data packages for health authority interactions.

  • Partnering with cross-functional teams (process development, formulation, safety science, quality, etc.) to develop control strategies aligned with cGMP, ICH, and regulatory expectations.

  • Informing program decisions across discovery and early development, i.e. generating high-quality data to guide molecular and formulation decisions

  • Innovating and evaluating new technologies in analytical chemistry or materials characterization to enable the integration of state-of-the-art instrumentation and software to solve complex problems.

  • Maintaining a high-level scientific profile both internally and externally in terms of pipeline contributions and scholarly achievements.

Who You Are

Successful candidates will possess the following qualifications:

  • PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Sciences, Bioengineering, or relevant scientific disciplines with

    0-2 years industry experience ( Senior Scientist); 3-5 years of industry experience (Principal Scientist). Exceptional candidates with Bachelor or Master degree in these fields with 12+ years of experience may be considered. Title and level will be aligned with qualifications and experience.

  • Outstanding record of innovation and success in multiple projects over the course of graduate, post-doctoral and industrial career with a sustained publication or patent record.

  • Deep hands-on expertise in at least one of the following areas for the analysis of synthetic small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides, polymers, or nanoparticles (lipid and polymer nanoparticles) is required:

    • Mass spectrometry method development (HRMS, MS/MS, structural elucidation)

    • Chromatographic method development (reversed phase, normal phase, HILIC, SEC, SFC, 2D-LC/MS)

  • Experience with chromatography and/or MS data systems (e.g., Empower, Xcalibur, MassHunter, Chromeleon), and ability to independently analyze complex datasets, is required.

  • Experience with nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems (lipid nanoparticles, polymer nanoparticles, etc.) is highly desirable.

  • Excellent communication (orally and in writing) and organizational skills.

  • Ability to collaborate, learn, and eventually lead in a CMC/cross functional environment.

  • Ability to take initiative, think strategically, work in teams and develop people, have advanced literature searching and problem-solving skills.

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of the chemistry and formulation processes of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems (e.g., lipid nanoparticles, polymeric systems).

  • Exposure to CMC, regulatory submissions, or analytical control strategies.

  • Working knowledge of data analysis, modeling, and AI assisted workflows, including the ability to effectively use AI tools (e.g., LLM).

  • Familiarity with additional characterization tools (e.g., light scattering, rheology, spectroscopy, microscopy).

Relocation benefits are available for this posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California for Senior Scientist is $124,300- $230,900 and Principal Scientist is $143,200-$265,900. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.


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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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