Principal Scientist, Analytical Development

Aurora Biosynthetics; Sydney; On-site; AUD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Biotech program

Collaborative environment

National and international impact

Job summary

Aurora Biosynthetics is hiring a Principal Scientist, Analytical Development to lead assay development and analytical testing for pDNA, mRNA, and targeted LNP platforms at our Sydney facility. The role will drive development, optimization, and transfer of analytical methods into GMP QC labs, collaborating across Process Development, Manufacturing, QC/QA, and external partners.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in industry lab setting, expertise in mRNA-LNP analytics, and strong data

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field.
• 3+ years lab research experience in industry.
• Hands-on experience with mRNA-LNP analytics: flow cytometry, PCR, ELISA, NanoOrange, Ribogreen, DLS.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and execute analytical assays for mRNA and LNP/tLNP characterization.
• Perform analytical testing at multiple stages to monitor quality attributes (size, PDI, encapsulation).
• Develop cell-based potency assays for CAR expression and function.
• Analyze data with statistical tools, ensuring traceability and documentation for tech transfer and regulatory submissions.
• Execute SOPs and assay protocols to ensure robust results.
• Maintain lab readiness; manage inventory and materials for analytical studies.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate assay data into development decisions.

Skills

Flow cytometry

PCR

ELISA

NanoOrange

RiboGreen

DLS

Cell-based potency assays

CAR functional assays

Education

BS/MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related

Job description

Principal Scientist, Analytical Development

Position Description: Principal Scientist, Analytical Development

Aurora Biosynthetics Pty Ltd

Company Overview:

Aurora Biosynthetics is a next-generation RNA-focused CDMO dedicated to advancing the production of pDNA, mRNA, and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for global biopharmaceutical innovators. Aurora will launch and operate this end-to-end, state-of-the-art GMP manufacturing facility in Sydney. The facility will serve as a center of excellence for RNA therapeutic and vaccine manufacturing, combining scientific excellence with agile, scalable production services.

Aurora is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a high-performing team where appointments are based on merit, and where a diverse range of perspectives, experiences and backgrounds are welcomed as essential to sustainable success.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Analytical Scientist to lead assay development and analytical testing of pDNA, mRNA and targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNP) platforms at Aurora Biosynthetics. The role will lead the development, optimization, execution, and transfer of analytical methods used to characterize pDNA, mRNA and LNP/tLNP products for key clinical programs.

The position will perform analytical and cell-based testing, evaluate experimental data, maintain laboratory and equipment readiness, and lead the transition of analytical methods into a GMP QC Analytical Laboratory. The role will work cross-functionally with Process Development, Manufacturing, QC/QA, and other internal and external stakeholders to generate robust, traceable analytical data supporting product development, technology transfer, and regulatory activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Development, optimization, and execution of analytical assays for mRNA and LNP/tLNP characterization, including RNA integrity and size, PCR-based quantification, NanoOrange, RiboGreen, DLS, particle size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, and cell-based expression and functional assays to assess product quality and biological activity.
• Perform analytical testing at each stage to monitor critical quality attributes, including, but not limited to, size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency.
• Development of cell-based potency assays for CAR expression and function.
• Analyze experimental dataset quantitatively, applying statistical and bioanalytical tools to interpret assay results, identify trends, and drive process improvements. Ensure data accuracy, thorough traceability, and excellent documentation and recording to support critical decisions for technology transfer and regulatory submissions.
• Execute Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and assay protocols ensuring robust and reproducible results.
• Maintain laboratory readiness by managing inventory, sourcing critical materials, and reagents to ensure the successful and timely execution of all active analytical studies.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with process development, and research teams to integrate assay data into development decision-making and regulatory filings.
• Lead the method transfers of tests to GMP QC Analytical Lab.
• Lead the method transfers of tests from clients to Aurora.

Minimum Qualifications and Skills

• Education: BS/MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• Experience: 3+ years of laboratory research experience in an industry setting.
• Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with mRNA-LNP analytical testing including but not limited to flow cytometry, PCR, ELISA, NanoOrange, Ribogreen, DLS.
• Experience with T cell culture (immortalized and primary) and CAR functional assays (CAR expression, cytotoxicity, cytokine production).
• Soft Skills: Strong data interpretation and troubleshooting capabilities. Detail-oriented with excellent organizational, multi-tasking, and communication skills with a collaborative mindset.
• Flexibility: Ability to work outside regular business hours, including evening calls with global partners.
• Mindset: Team-oriented, proactive, and adaptable, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability. Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and effectively manage multiple and changing priorities.

Aurora Biosynthetics is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their role. However, this position does involve inherent physical requirements, including an ability to:

• Stand for extended periods.
• Lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs/23 kg.
• Occasionally work in gowned cleanroom conditions.

What Aurora Offers

• A unique opportunity in one of Australia’s most ambitious biotechnology infrastructure programs.
• Contribution to the development of RNA manufacturing capability serving domestic and global markets.
• Collaborative, entrepreneurial work environment with national and international significance

Employer: Aurora Biosynthetics Pty Ltd
Location: Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
Work arrangement: Full-time, on-site
Employment type: Full-time
Salary: $125,00–$150,000 per annum + superannuation