Scientist II, mRNA Research & Production

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute end-to-end research-grade automated mRNA production workflows, including template preparation, plasmid DNA sequencing data analysis, linearization, IVT, capping or cap analog workflows, nucleotide modification, purification, buffer exchange, storage, and batch release for research use
• Design mRNA (5’/3’ UTR, coding sequence, modifications, etc.) to improve protein yield, activity, and specificity using established and cutting-edge methodology
• Manage and mentor a small mRNA production core function, helping coordinate production schedules, train team members, review batch quality, and maintain reliable material delivery to R&D teams
• Partner with payload engineering, delivery, in vivo pharmacology, bioanalytics, and translational teams to ensure mRNA materials are fit-for-purpose for platform and program needs
• Produce high-quality mRNA for rapid screening of customized base editors in cell-based assays, as well as scaled batches to support mouse studies, assay development, and early translational experiments
• Improve IVT and purification workflows to increase yield, purity, consistency, turnaround time, and functional performance while minimizing impurities such as dsRNA, abortive transcripts, truncated products, residual template DNA, endotoxin, and other process-related contaminants
• Implement and interpret fit-for-purpose mRNA analytical assays, including concentration, integrity, transcript purity, size distribution, dsRNA, residual DNA, endotoxin, and functional expression or potency readouts
• Use analytical platforms such as Fragment Analyzer, TapeStation, Bioanalyzer, gel or capillary electrophoresis, HPLC/UPLC, dsRNA ELISA, endotoxin assays, qPCR/ddPCR, and cell-based assays to characterize mRNA quality
• Engage and coordinate CROs for production and analytics
• Maintain clear SOPs, batch records, analytical summaries, sample inventories, and production documentation to support reliable material handoff and reproducible workflows
• Analyze production and analytical data to troubleshoot batch failures, identify process trends, and recommend improvements to quality, speed, and robustness
• Support mRNA production workflows for emerging programmable genome engineering modalities, including engineered recombinases, as Profluent’s platform and portfolio evolve

Qualifications

• PhD, MS, or BS in molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related discipline, with relevant industry experience in mRNA production, RNA process development, nucleic acid manufacturing, or related areas
• Deep hands-on experience with IVT-based mRNA production and the technical challenges of generating high-quality RNA for in vitro and in vivo studies
• Experience with plasmid or DNA template preparation, linearization, IVT, capping or cap analog workflows, nucleotide modification, mRNA purification, and product characterization
• Strong understanding of mRNA quality attributes, process-related impurities, IVT performance, purification strategies, stability, storage, and the relationship between mRNA quality and biological performance
• Experience producing mRNA for discovery-stage screening and scaling for in vivo preclinical rodent studies
• Experience with modified nucleotides, cap analogs, enzymatic capping, polyA strategies, UTR/codon/design-variable screening, or RNA design-for-potency and manufacturability
• Experience coordinating, training, mentoring, or managing research associates or technical team members in a production, process development, core-lab, or high-throughput R&D environment
• Experience with preparative chromatography, TFF, bead-based purification, buffer exchange, or other mRNA purification approaches
• Strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and ability to independently troubleshoot production and analytical workflows
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including experience maintaining SOPs, batch records, analytical summaries, and clear technical documentation
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced R&D environment

Preferences

• Experience supporting genome editing, base editing, gene writing, engineered recombinases, mRNA/LNP therapeutics, RNA medicines, gene therapy, cell therapy, or other advanced therapeutic modalities
• Experience with automation-compatible workflows, including deep-well plates, magnetic bead cleanup, KingFisher instruments, liquid handlers, or LIMS-like sample tracking systems
• Familiarity with LNP formulation interfaces, RNA buffer compatibility, freeze-thaw considerations, storage stability, and downstream delivery-performance impacts
• Familiarity with GMP readiness, IND-enabling supply strategy, raw material strategy, plasmid supply, enzyme/cap/nucleotide sourcing, quality systems, or CMC planning for RNA therapeutics

What We Offer

• High-growth opportunity with meaningful impact on the future of protein design
• Competitive compensation package with equity participation
• 401(k) with a strong employer match
• Comprehensive benefits including health/dental/vision insurance
• Generous PTO policy and commitment to work-life balance
• Professional development opportunities in a cutting-edge field at the intersection of AI and biology

Hiring Salary Range

$147,000 - $161,000 USD