Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Work Location:

San Diego, CA. 92111

Schedule:

Onsite, Mondays to Fridays

Pay Rate: $42.00- $48.28/hour

We are seeking a Scientist II to join our Formulation team, supporting the development and optimization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for nucleic acid delivery. This hands-on laboratory role focuses on the formulation, encapsulation, and characterization of targeted and non-targeted LNPs containing mRNA, siRNA, or DNA for in vitro and in vivo applications.

The successful candidate will execute formulation experiments, conduct Design of Experiments (DoE)-based screening campaigns, analyze experimental data, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance non-viral delivery technologies. The ideal candidate has strong technical expertise in LNP formulation, analytical characterization, and experimental data analysis, with a demonstrated ability to produce reproducible results in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry setting.

• Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation:
  Develop, prepare, and optimize targeted and non-targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs and tLNPs) for nucleic acid delivery, including mRNA, siRNA, and DNA encapsulation.
• LNP Characterization:
  Perform physicochemical characterization of LNP formulations using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, and Ribogreen assays to evaluate particle size, surface charge, and nucleic acid encapsulation efficiency.
• Design of Experiments (DoE):
  Execute DoE-based formulation screening campaigns to evaluate lipid compositions, formulation variables, and processing parameters to identify optimal LNP formulations.
• Formulation Development:
  Support early-stage formulation development, process optimization, and downstream processing activities, including cryoprotection, formulation scale-up, and stability studies.
• Targeted LNP Development:
  Support the preparation and characterization of targeted LNPs using antibody-based targeting ligands, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), Fab fragments, single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), and VHH antibodies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  Partner with internal research and development teams to coordinate formulation requests, meet project timelines, and support nucleic acid delivery studies.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:
  Analyze, interpret, and present formulation and characterization data to the Formulation team. Use Microsoft Excel and applicable statistical analysis software to evaluate experimental results and identify trends.
• Laboratory Documentation:
  Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, experimental protocols, formulation parameters, and results to support data integrity and reproducibility.
• Laboratory Operations:
  Perform routine laboratory management activities, including inventory tracking, supply ordering, buffer preparation, equipment maintenance, and autoclaving.
• Experimental Optimization:
  Troubleshoot formulation challenges, refine experimental procedures, and contribute to continuous improvement of LNP preparation and characterization workflows.

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline, with at least 5 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience; or
• Master's degree in a related scientific discipline, with at least 2 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• LNP Formulation
  
  Experience:
  
  Minimum of 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in lipid nanoparticle formulation and nucleic acid encapsulation, including mRNA, siRNA, or DNA.
• Analytical Characterization:
  Demonstrated proficiency in LNP characterization techniques, including Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurement, and Ribogreen assays.
• Data Analysis:
  Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for experimental data analysis, organization, and reporting.
• Experimental Design:
  Familiarity with formulation screening, experimental optimization, and Design of Experiments (DoE) methodologies.
• Laboratory Documentation:
  Ability to maintain detailed experimental records and generate accurate, reproducible laboratory data.

• Medical Coverage – HDHP, PPO, and Surest plan options
• Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC)
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Life & AD&D Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)