Senior Scientist/Principal Scientist, mRNA & Nucleic Acid Delivery

Position Summary

Reporting into the Executive Director, Head of LNP the Senior/Principal Scientist will carry out early research projects from developing novel ionizable lipids, lipid nanoparticle formulations for antibody conjugation, process development, and evaluate the use of vitro assays and in vivo animal models. The individual will work in our state-of-the-art laboratory and be responsible for experimental planning and execution, data analysis and presentation. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a cross-functional team and contribute to the development of next-generation mRNA technology and therapeutics in a fast-paced biotech company.

Responsibilities

• Drive the discovery of innovative RNA/LNP delivery technologies and the optimization of their biological and biophysical properties.
• Lead the effort in designing and developing novel ionizable lipids, LNP formulations and conjugation technologies for in vivo targeted delivery.
• Develop and implement high-throughput assays to characterize and evaluate the LNP/RNA systems including stability, delivery efficiency and critical quality attributes.
• Conduct and oversee own experimental research as well as the work by the associated scientists.
• Stay scientifically current, identify emerging strategic research areas and innovative fields within the life science domain, with a strong emphasis on nucleic acids, lipid nanoparticles, alternative gene delivery or editing systems, tissue targeting.

Minimum Qualifications

• Senior Scientist: PhD in a relevant discipline with 5-7 years working experience in ionizable lipid, LNP formulation, RNA/LNP nanoparticle preparation, RNA delivery technology, target delivery, or related field with excellent track record from academia or industry.
• Principal Scientist: PhD in a relevant discipline with 8+ years working experience in ionizable lipid, LNP formulation, RNA/LNP nanoparticle preparation, RNA delivery technology, target delivery, or related field with excellent track record from academia or industry.
• Expertise in design, synthesis, purification and characterization of novel ionizable lipids, lipid-conjugates, lipid like compounds or other molecules.
• Hands on experience in lipid biology, LNP formulation preparation and optimization, in vitro/in vivo cell based assays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with in vivo models from mice to NHP (highly desirable).

Competencies

• Collaborative – Openness, One Team
• Undaunted – Fearless, Can-do attitude
• Results Orientation – Delivering progress toward our mission. Sense of urgency in solving problems.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit – Proactive. Ownership mindset.