Cell Delivery and Formulation Scientist
About the role
We are seeking a curious and passionate scientist to lead intracellular delivery and formulation development for a biostabilization platform. In this role, you will design and execute high-throughput screening campaigns, integrate delivery and formulation strategies, and collaborate across a multi-institution team of academic and commercial partners. This position offers direct ownership of a core technical thrust within a high-impact, federally funded program, providing a unique opportunity to drive meaningful scientific advancement at the intersection of cell biology, bioengineering, and translational research.
Responsibilities
- Develop and optimize intracellular delivery of cargo into multiple mammalian cell types, including parameter development on reference delivery systems
- Design, formulate, and optimize cocktails for cell stabilization and recovery
- Plan and execute high-throughput screening of delivery and formulation conditions using automated liquid handling, plate-based viability and metabolic assays, and flow cytometry
- Define quantitative acceptance criteria; analyze viability, apoptosis, metabolic activity, and recovery data; and drive down-selection of lead conditions
- Coordinate technical execution with academic and commercial partners, including transfer of protocols and materials
- Author technical reports, standard operating procedures, and program deliverables; present results to internal leadership and sponsors
- Integrate delivery and formulation with downstream bioprocessing and support recovery optimization
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and adhere to safety and quality standards
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Cell or Molecular Biology, Biophysics, Materials Science, or a related field with 0–2 years of experience; or an M.S. with 2+ years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated experience in intracellular delivery or cell membrane permeabilization using one or more physical or non-viral methods (e.g., microfluidic cell squeezing/mechanoporation, electroporation or nucleofection, sonoporation, microinjection, nanoneedle/nanostraw, or comparable techniques)
- Hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture, including primary cells and cell lines, and sterile technique
- Experience developing and running quantitative cell-based assays (viability, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, metabolic activity) and flow cytometry
- Experience formulating and optimizing biological formulations or protectants, or a strong foundation in formulation science
- Strong data analysis skills with the ability to define and apply acceptance criteria
- Strong analytical, organizational, and written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently and lead within a multidisciplinary team
- Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cell stabilization technologies such as desiccation, cryopreservation, or lyophilization
- Familiarity with protectant biology and anhydrobiosis
- Experience with high-throughput screening, automated liquid handling, and design of experiments (DOE)
- Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, R, Python, FlowJo)
- Track record of peer-reviewed publications or conference proceedings
- Experience with cell and gene therapy products or manufacturing (e.g., CAR-T, stem cell, or other cell-based therapeutics)
Pay
The salary range for this role is $66,500 – $94,000 per year. A candidate's salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.
Benefits
- Compressed work schedule: Every other Friday off
- Hybrid work arrangement: 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days
- Paid time off to support work-life balance
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and optional supplemental benefits
- Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care, and family formation support
- 401(k) retirement savings plan: 5% employer contribution regardless of employee contribution, plus matching contributions
- Tuition assistance for higher education