Postdoctoral Scholar, Cell and Genetic Medicine

Postdoctoral Scholar, Cell and Genetic Medicine

Location:

San Diego, California, United States

Job Overview:
The role focuses on advancing lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based nucleic acid delivery and genome engineering for next-generation cell and gene therapy applications.

• Design, execute, and optimize in vitro assays to assess LNP-mediated nucleic acid tolerability, delivery, and nuclear localization.
• Support molecular design and evaluation of approaches to improve nuclear uptake.
• Analyze experimental data with scientific rigor, ensuring reproducibility and quality.
• Contribute to LNP formulation and optimization, including workflows and analytical characterization.
• Advance and apply LNP and analytical techniques within project scope.
• Develop bioconjugation strategies and related analytical methods for targeted LNP delivery.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to advance project goals.
• Develop scientific and technical skillset through training, conferences, and meetings.
• Acquire in‑depth knowledge of drug discovery and pre‑clinical/clinical development processes.

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline.
• Strong foundation in molecular biology and nucleic acid biochemistry, genome editing, or related systems.
• Experience in in‑vitro assay development and cellular experimentation.
• Proficiency with mammalian cell systems.
• Interest in nanoparticle delivery systems (e.g., LNPs) and analytical techniques.
• Prior exposure to LNP formulation or nucleic acid delivery systems is preferred.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques: size, encapsulation, physicochemical characterization.
• Experience with HPLC or related methods is preferred.
• Experience with bioconjugation or targeted delivery approaches is preferred.
• Knowledge of CRISPR-based genome editing or targeted integration workflows is preferred.
• Ability to design and execute experiments independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, creative problem‑solving, data analysis, and experimental design skills.
• High level of self‑motivation, ownership, and scientific rigor.

Base pay range: $79,000 – $127,650 (USD). Eligible for company’s retirement plan, long‑term incentive program, and additional benefits such as vacation, sick time, holiday pay, parental leave, and more.

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.