Scientist II, LNP

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to join our LNP team. This is a critical, hands-on laboratory role focused on the design, development, and characterization of novel nanoparticle delivery systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, formulate and optimize novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) compositions through different production methods and scale.
• Perform comprehensive analytical characterization of nanoparticles including but not limited to size, zeta potential, morphology, payload and lipid quantification, encapsulation efficiency, etc.
• Develop and execute bioconjugation strategies to functionalize LNP surfaces with targeting ligands of different sizes or nature.
• Analyze, interpret and present complex experimental data clearly and concisely at team and company meetings.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to design and execute experiments that evaluate formulation performance, toxicity, and efficacy.
• Stay current with scientific literature, troubleshoot technical challenges, and proactively evaluate new technologies to improve our delivery platform.
• Maintain meticulous and accurate electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and contribute to technical reports and regulatory filings.
• Collaborate with IP counsels to support CRISPR Therapeutics patent applications and prosecutions.

Requirements

• Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field with PhD with 2-5 years of relevant experience or postdoctoral experience or non-PhD with 10-12+ years of relevant experience.
• Deep, hands-on experience in the formulation of lipid nanoparticles or similar non-viral delivery systems.
• Demonstrated experience with encapsulating nucleic acids and associated analytical techniques.
• Experience with bioconjugation chemistry and protein modification and purification.
• Proficiency in nanoparticle characterization techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to design experiments independently.
• Excellent communication skills and a highly collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of LNP process development, scale-up and stability testing.
• Experience with HPLC/UPLC for lipid and payload analysis.
• Familiarity with in vivo models for evaluating drug delivery systems.
• Experience working in a fast-paced biotech or pharmaceutical industry environment.
• Understanding of Design of Experiments (DoE) principles.