
Vaccines
Where
extraordinary minds
help protect half a billion people
mRNA - Research Associate - Vaccines
Who we are
Every day, 2.5 million Sanofi vaccine doses reach patients worldwide - powered by bold ideas, cutting-edge science, and passionate people like you. Across every stage — from discovery to delivery — Sanofians are shaping the future of vaccines. In global R&D hubs, exceptional offices, and state-of-the-art manufacturing sites, we’re reimagining what’s possible. But science alone isn’t enough — it’s the extraordinary minds behind it that truly make the difference.
Job Title: mRNA - Research Associate - Vaccines
Location: Waltham, MA
About the Job
At Sanofi, we believe in a world in which no one suffers or dies from vaccine-preventable diseases. And while the pandemic has shaken up our industry, creating new opportunities and risks, we believe the acceleration of innovation with mRNA technology means vaccines for more people faster than before.
That’s why we’re looking for bold, optimistic world-changers to join the team at our mRNA Center of Excellence. We’re investing €400m a year into the new Center, hiring a team of 400 dedicated employees for it and using it as the foundation to implement integrated end-to-end mRNA vaccine capabilities and research with R&D, digital and CMC teams.
Bring your ambition and optimism for the future to Sanofi. Join us!
RA – Delivery & formulation development
We are seeking a highly motivated and scientifically rigorous individual to join the Delivery and formulation development team as a Research Associate. The position will focus on developing novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for mRNA delivery, as well as some characterization and data analysis.
We are an innovative global healthcare company that helps the world stay ahead of infectious diseases by delivering more than 500 million vaccine doses a year. Across different countries, our talented teams are exploring new technologies to protect people and promote healthy communities. We chase the miracles of science every single day, pursuing Progress to make a real impact on millions of patients around the world.
Main Responsibilities
Prepare formulations and perform characterization assays /data analysis with focus on in vivo studies, drug carrier design/development, assay development etc.
Support formulation development activities in areas of mRNA vaccines.
Contribute in the development & writing/reviewing analytical method protocols. Prepare technical reports and presentations for clear communication of scientific findings across interdisciplinary teams.
About You
Earned Bachelor or Master's degree in Chemistry/Physical Chemistry/Chemical Engineering/Biochemistry or related field
Experience in nucleic acid delivery with hands-on experience in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations & characterization, ideally within a co-op or internship
Direct experience with messenger RNA encapsulation/quantification/characterization/handling is preferred
Proficiency in analytical techniques like HPLC/UPLC, DLS, CD, zeta potential, UV-Vis and fluorescence spectrophotometry etc. is preferred
Understanding and success in implementation of RNA-related analytics (Ribogreen, gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, etc.) is desired.
Works collaboratively within group as well as within interdisciplinary teams
Manages time effectively demonstrating ability to perform multiple projects at one time
Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Why Choose Us?
Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.
Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it’s through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.
Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks’ gender-neutral parental leave.
Sanofi Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employers committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law.
#GD-SP
#LI-SP
#LI-Onsite
#mRNA
#vhd
All compensation will be determined commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs, and additional benefits information can be found here.

Find out more about this location

Why work with us
- We’re problem-solvers and pioneers. United by the belief that everyone deserves a healthier future. We create best-in-class vaccines that prevent disease and protect lives.
- Innovation drives us. From AI and mRNA to next-gen science, we push the boundaries to deliver first- and best-in-class vaccines for infectious diseases worldwide.
- Growth happens here. With bold investments in R&D and world-class facilities, Sanofians across the entire vaccine lifecycle are shaping the future of global health.
- We do what’s right. Sustainability and DE&I drive our positive global impact—because the diverse communities Sanofians represent are the patients we serve.
What does it take to protect the world from disease?
For over a century, we’ve been pioneering breakthroughs that help protect millions from diseases like polio, influenza, RSV, and more. And we’re not stopping there.
Powered by groundbreaking technologies - mRNA platforms, recombinant proteins, and AI-driven insights - we’re pushing the boundaries of science.

"I’m immensely proud of the pace of our innovation – the urgency by which our teams are working to transform the practice of medicine."

Thomas Triomphe
Executive Vice President, Vaccines
Discover more

Sanofi’s mRNA Center of Excellence
Step into the future of healthcare with Sanofi’s mRNA Center of Excellence. Discover how a global team is transforming medicine with cutting-edge mRNA technology – and explore the skills, inspirations, and breakthroughs driving this revolution. Ready to shape the future?

About Sanofi Vaccines
Explore our commitment to protecting global health through the power of vaccines. We’re building healthier communities with innovative solutions that save millions of lives each year. Dive into the future of vaccines, discover the diseases we’re tackling, and learn why vaccination is critical at every stage of life.

Join our
talent community
What could we achieve together? Every Sanofian works on projects that truly make a difference to people’s lives.
Sign up today and discover our latest opportunities as soon as they’re available.