SD_Scientist I

Key Responsibilities Execute and optimize the formulation and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and targeted LNPs (tLNPs) for encapsulation and delivery of nucleic acids in in vitro and in vivo studies, with guidance from senior formulation scientists. The successful candidate will work closely with senior formulation scientists and cross-functional teams to support LNP development activities, generate high-quality and reproducible data, and contribute to the advancement of non-viral delivery platforms.

Scientist I – Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Formulation
Location: San Diego, CA 92111
Contract Duration: 3 Months (Potential for Extension or Full-Time Conversion)
Pay Rate: $27.96–$44.82/hour (W2)
Benefits: Weekly Pay, Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
 
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Scientist I to join our Formulation team. This is a hands-on laboratory position focused on the formulation, optimization, and characterization of targeted and non-targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for nucleic acid delivery.
The successful candidate will work closely with senior formulation scientists and cross-functional teams to support LNP development activities, generate high-quality and reproducible data, and contribute to the advancement of non-viral delivery platforms.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize the formulation and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and targeted LNPs (tLNPs) for encapsulation and delivery of nucleic acids in in vitro and in vivo studies, with guidance from senior formulation scientists.
• Conduct Design of Experiments (DoE)-based screening campaigns to evaluate and optimize LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate with cross-functional internal teams to support formulation requests and project objectives.
• Support early-stage formulation development and downstream processing activities, including:
  • Cryoprotection
  • Scale-up
  • Stability studies
  • Other formulation development activities as needed
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including formulation procedures, experimental conditions, and results.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to the formulation team.
• Support routine laboratory operations, including:
  • Inventory tracking
  • Supply ordering
  • Buffer preparation
  • Autoclaving
  • General lab organization and maintenance

 
Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline with 4+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience, OR
• Master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline with 1+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• Minimum 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience in LNP formulation, including nucleic acid encapsulation involving mRNA, siRNA, or DNA.
• Hands-on experience with standard LNP characterization techniques, including:
  • Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
  • Zeta potential
  • Ribogreen assays
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Experience with statistical and data analysis software such as JMP or GraphPad Prism is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and demonstrated ability to generate accurate, reproducible experimental data.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-functional laboratory environment.

 
Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with targeted LNP (tLNP) preparation, particularly LNPs coated with:
  • Monoclonal antibodies (mAb)
  • Fab fragments
  • ScFv
  • VHH
• Experience with immune cell delivery using targeted or non-targeted LNP platforms.
• Experience supporting formulation scale-up, stability, and downstream processing activities.
• Familiarity with DoE-based formulation optimization and statistical analysis.

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