Scientist I​/II – Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation & Process Development

Overview

Scientist I/II – Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation & Process Development

Job Title:
Scientist I/II – Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation & Process Development

Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite)

Company: Cellese Inc.

Reports to: Lead Scientist

* Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.*

Company Overview:

Cellese Inc. is a leader in regenerative science and advanced skincare, developing cutting-edge cosmeceuticals that combine luxury with scientific rigor. Our R&D team is pioneering lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and exosome-based technologies to deliver next-generation skincare and regenerative solutions. Join our dynamic, collaborative, and fast-paced environment where innovation directly translates into product development and clinical impact.

• Research, develop, and optimize lipid nanoparticle formulations for skincare and regenerative ingredient delivery.
• Design and execute experiments using Quality by Design (QbD) and Design of Experiments (DoE) approaches to establish critical process parameters (CPPs).
• Manufacture nanoparticles using microfluidic mixers and downstream purification (TFF) methods.
• Conduct analytical characterization (NTA, zeta potential, HPLC/UPLC, Ribogreen, stability testing) to define and monitor critical quality attributes (CQAs).
• Support pilot-scale production, lyophilization, and fill/finish development.
• Partner with biology teams to test formulations in vitro and leverage data for iterative improvement.
• Prepare SOPs, batch records, development reports, and technology transfer packages for cross-functional use.
• Present findings internally and externally, contributing to both tactical development and strategic innovation discussions.

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biology, or related field with 2+ years relevant experience; OR M.S. with 4+ years; OR B.S. with 6+ years.
• Hands-on expertise in lipid nanoparticle formulation and process development.
• Strong knowledge of microfluidic nanoparticle assembly, lipid self-assembly, and TFF purification.
• Practical experience with analytical methods (NTA, HPLC/UPLC, SEC, IEX, IP-RP, fluorescence assays).
• Familiarity with in-process controls, stability testing, and data/statistical analysis.
• Ability to independently design, troubleshoot, and document experiments.

• Knowledge of exosome or hybrid EV–LNP technologies.
• Background in skin or hair biology models.
• Understanding of cGMP expectations and regulatory considerations for nanoparticle-based products.
• Familiarity with statistical software for DoE and process optimization.
• Newly renovated lab space, equipped for advanced nanoparticle formulation and testing.
• Collaborative, small-team culture that values creativity, innovation, and cross-functional impact.
• Exposure to chemicals and laboratory equipment with standard lab physical requirements (standing, pipetting, lifting up to 25 lbs, etc.).

$95,000–$120,000 annually (commensurate with experience).

Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–5:00 pm (onsite)

Health, dental, vision, and life insurance

401(k) with company match

Quarterly team events, catered lunches, casual culture, and complimentary company skincare products.

At Cellese, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the next generation of scientifically advanced skincare. This is a rare opportunity to lead hands-on formulation innovation within a company at the forefront of regenerative aesthetics—where your expertise will directly translate into products used by leading dermatologists and aesthetic professionals worldwide.