Senior Scientist, LNP Formulations

The role

This person will design and synthesize novel ionizable lipids and next generation lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations. They will focus on rational design, molar composition optimization, and formulation preparation for screening.

What you will do

• Design and synthesize novel ionizable lipids using structure-activity relationships.
• Lead the design of LNP molar compositions.
• Prepare LNP formulations at small scale.
• Plan and conduct formulation screening studies.
• Characterize lipids and LNPs using analytical methods.
• Collaborate with biology, analytical, process development and external partners.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data.
• Mentor junior scientists.
• Contribute to scientific strategy and IP position.
• Stay current with advancements in ionizable lipid chemistry and LNP technologies.

Required qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a related field, with 5+ years of relevant industry experience; or M.S. with 8+ years of experience.
• Strong background in multi-step organic synthesis, purification and structural characterization.
• Hands-on experience with LNP formulation.
• Understanding of how lipid structure and molar composition drive potency, stability and tolerability.
• Experience designing and running formulation screens.
• Experience with characterization by DLS, encapsulation assays and pKa determination.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex technical problems.
• Record of innovation such as publications or patents.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists.

Nice to have

• Experience with nucleic acid delivery (mRNA, DNA, siRNA)
• Familiarity with lipid analytics (NMR, LC-MS, HPLC-CAD/ELSD)
• Familiarity with computational or data-driven approaches to lipid design

Benefits

• Healthcare coverage
• Annual incentive program
• Retirement benefits
• Broad range of other benefits

About the company

Serif Biomedicines is a privately held, early-stage biotechnology company developing a novel approach to gene therapy. It was founded by Flagship Pioneering, an innovation enterprise that creates and grows life sciences companies.