Research Associate II, CRISPR-X - LNP

CRISPR Therapeutics is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on developing transformative gene-based medicines for serious human diseases. The company has evolved from a pioneering research-stage organization into an industry leader, having achieved milestones such as the approval of CASGEVY® (exagamglogene autotemcel [exa‑cel]), the world’s first CRISPR-based therapy for sickle cell disease and transfusion‑dependent beta thalassemia. The company’s pipeline spans hemoglobinopathies, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, oncology, regenerative medicine, and rare diseases, with a proprietary gene‑editing platform called SyNTase™.

CRISPR Therapeutics collaborates with leading biopharmaceutical partners, including Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and operates globally from Zug, Switzerland, with U.S. subsidiaries and R&D centers in Boston and San Francisco.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II to support the design, development, and optimization of novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for hepatic and extra‑hepatic tissues. The incumbent will contribute to our non‑viral delivery platform and help advance next‑generation genome editing therapies from discovery through clinical translation. This role is part of the fast‑growing CRISPR‑X division and requires strong expertise in LNP formulation, scale‑up, analytical characterization, chemistry, and process development.

• Design, optimize, characterize, and execute LNP formulations across diverse lipid compositions and therapeutic payloads with minimal supervision.
• Apply analytical techniques including Ribo Green assays, DLS, NanoFCM, NTA, TFF, endotoxin testing, HPLC, DNA/RNA extraction, ELISA, SDS‑PAGE, PCR, and Western blotting.
• Generate reproducible datasets and maintain detailed experimental documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
• Perform mammalian cell culture and support in‑vitro studies such as transient transfection and electroporation in established cell lines.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with process development, analytical, and in‑vivo teams to support reproducible manufacturing processes and advance programs toward clinical development.
• Investigate LNP mechanisms of action to improve delivery efficiency, therapeutic potency, and formulation stability.
• Present experimental results, technical findings, and project updates to cross‑functional teams and broader audiences.
• Effectively manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast‑paced, collaborative research environment.

• BS or MS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• 2–5+ years of industry or academic research experience as a Research Associate II (or 0–2+ years with a master’s degree).
• Hands‑on experience in LNP formulation and analytical characterization for nucleic acid and targeted delivery applications.
• Strong understanding of drug delivery systems and gene editing therapeutics.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.
• Highly organized with strong scientific rigor, problem‑solving skills, and attention to detail.

• Experience with high‑throughput formulation screening and microfluidic mixing processes.
• Prior experience with ionizable lipid design, bioconjugation, and process development.
• Experience with scale‑up and large‑scale manufacturability development of LNPs.
• Understanding of RNA engineering, molecular biology, and hands‑on experience maintaining cells and performing in‑vitro transfection.

• Collaborative – Openness, One Team
• Undaunted – Fearless, Can‑do attitude
• Results Orientation – Delivering progress toward our mission; sense of urgency
• Entrepreneurial Spirit – Proactive, ownership mindset

Base pay range of $85,000 to $92,000 plus discretionary bonus, equity, and benefits. The range is a reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role and may vary based on experience, training, skills, and abilities.

CRISPR Therapeutics, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.