Associate Scientist​/Scientist , LNP Formulations

Associate Scientist/Scientist I, LNP Formulations

Cambridge, MA

Mirai Bio is a privately‑held, flagship‑founded biotechnology company delivering genetic medicines. The company focuses on scalable, precise delivery of nucleic acid payloads beyond the liver through lipid nanoparticle (LNP) optimization, machine learning, and integrated manufacturing.

Mirai Bio seeks a scientist to advance our LNP delivery platform for nucleic acid therapeutics, contributing to platform innovation and preclinical pipeline programs at the interface of formulation science, chemistry, analytical characterization, and process development.

• Design, formulate, and characterize lipid nanoparticle (LNP) systems for nucleic acid delivery across early research and preclinical development stages
• Develop and optimize formulation processes, including microfluidic mixing and scale‑up approaches (e.g., TFF, ultrafiltration)
• Screen and evaluate novel ionizable lipids and LNP compositions; analyze structure–function relationships to improve delivery performance
• Troubleshoot formulation and process challenges to enhance robustness, reproducibility, and scalability
• Generate high‑quality, reproducible data and maintain thorough documentation in electronic lab notebooks
• Prepare LNP formulations to support internal research and partner programs
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with analytical, translational, and technology development teams to advance platform goals
• Present data and insights clearly to internal teams and contribute to scientific discussions and decision‑making

• Ph.D. and 0–1 years or 4+ years (M.Sc.) or 6+ years (B.Sc.) of relevant industry experience in LNP formulation optimization and drug delivery with a strong background in nucleic acid therapeutics and a life sciences or engineering education (Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, etc.). The level (Associate Scientist or Scientist I) will be determined based on experience, technical expertise, and demonstrated impact.
• Hands‑on experience in nanoparticle or LNP formulation and characterization
• Strong understanding of drug delivery systems, particularly for nucleic acid therapeutics
• Experience with nanoparticle characterization techniques (e.g., DLS, zeta potential, fluorescence‑based assays such as Ribogreen, chromatography)
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments independently
• Strong data analysis, documentation, and communication skills

• Familiarity with formulation process technologies (e.g., microfluidic mixers, pumping systems, TFF)
• Experience with high‑throughput formulation screening approaches
• Knowledge of lipid chemistry, ionizable lipid design, or bioconjugation techniques
• Experience supporting in‑vivo studies or translating formulations from research to preclinical scale

• Scientific rigor and attention to data quality and reproducibility
• Curiosity and a problem‑solving mindset
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment
• Clear and concise communication across disciplines
• Ownership and accountability in driving projects forward

Cambridge, MA

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic.

Salary: $96,000 – $126,500. Compensation includes health coverage, an annual incentive program, retirement benefits, and other benefits as described in the company policies.