Associate Scientist/Scientist, mRNA Process Development

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

NATi, hosted by A*STAR in Singapore, seeks an Associate Scientist/Scientist for mRNA process development to advance RNA vaccines and immunotherapies across programs from discovery to IND‑enabling stages.

The role emphasizes robust bench work, data integrity, cross-functional collaboration, and readiness for regulatory submissions in a fast-paced biotech setting.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
• Minimum of 4+ years (MS) or 7+ years (BS) experience in RNA biochemistry or pharmaceutical sciences.
• Hands-on experience with ELISA, Western blot, SDS‑PAGE, and standard molecular biology and RNA biochemistry tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop processes for synthesis of bacterial plasmid DNA, cell-free DNA and IVT mRNA for RNA modalities (circRNA, saRNA, Linear mRNA).
• Develop purification methods for plasmid DNA, cell-free DNA and mRNA.
• Develop DNA and mRNA characterization tools including CGE, HPLC, ELISA, cell-based protein expression, UV spectroscopy and fluorescence assays.
• Maintain SOPs and batch records to ensure reproducibility and readiness for IND submission.
• Maintain records using LIMS/ELN to support data integrity and reproducibility.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal decision‑making and external regulatory submissions.
• Support tech transfer activities to external CDMOs, including reports, training and troubleshooting support.
• Support regulatory submissions by generating reports and contributing to CMC documentation.

Skills

Experience in RNA biochemistry

Ex vivo cell-based assays

Troubleshooting experimental processes

Education

BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field

Tools

ELISA

Western blot

SDS-PAGE

RT-PCR

PCR

DNA/RNA extraction

Cloning

Primer design

AEX purification

HIC purification

Affinity chromatography

IVT mRNA synthesis

Capillary gel electrophoresis

Job description

About NATi The Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi), hosted by A*STAR, is Singapore’s national platform dedicated to advancing RNA-based medicines and revolutionizing drug and vaccine development. NATi’s mission is to establish Singapore as a globally recognized hub of excellence in nucleic acid therapeutics research, clinical translation, and commercialization.

NATi focuses on key RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA). To drive this vision, NATi is building a biotech-like translational engine focused on asset and technology development spanning discovery to clinical development. We are actively seeking a highly motivated, experienced, and committed scientist with laboratory skills to join us in advancing the next generation of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics.

Position Overview

The Associate Scientist/Scientist, mRNA Process Development will work to develop mRNA vaccines and immunotherapies across multiple therapeutic programs. This role is important to NATi’s strategy, supporting the development of multiple vaccine and immunotherapy candidates from discovery/pre-clinical to IND‑enabling stages. The successful candidate will have prior experience and a proven track record in academic or biotech laboratory settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop processes for the synthesis of bacterial plasmid DNA, cell‑free DNA and in‑vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA for different RNA therapeutic modalities (circRNA, saRNA, Linear mRNA)
• Develop purification methods (chromatography, tangential flow filtration) for plasmid DNA, cell‑free DNA and mRNA
• Develop DNA and mRNA characterization tools including, but not limited to, capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), HPLC, ELISA, cell‑based protein expression, UV spectroscopy and fluorescence assays
• Develop and maintain SOPs and batch records to ensure reproducibility, compliance, and readiness for IND submission
• Maintain accurate records using LIMS/ELN systems to support data integrity and reproducibility
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to support internal decision‑making and external regulatory submissions
• Support tech transfer activities to external CDMOs, including preparation of reports, training and troubleshooting support
• Support regulatory submissions by generating reports and contributing to CMC documentation

Qualifications & Experience

• BS or MS degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field
• Minimum of 4+ years (with MS degree) or 7+ years (with BS degree) of experience in the field related to RNA biochemistry or pharmaceutical sciences; industry experience preferred but not required
• Knowledgeable and skilled in designing and conducting ex‑vivo cell‑based assays
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience in ELISA, Western blot, SDS‑PAGE, standard molecular biology and RNA biochemistry tools (primer design, cloning, RT‑PCR, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction and purification)
• Knowledge of nucleic acid purification tools (AEX, HIC & affinity chromatography, IP‑RP HPLC) preferred
• Ability to use SnapGene, GraphPad Prism and Excel
• Strong problem‑solving skills and decision‑making skills with the ability to troubleshoot experimental processes and provide analysis
• Comfortable with a fast‑changing environment and flexible to effectively deliver results within reasonably established timelines
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross‑functional, fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment