Director, LNP Formulation & In Vivo mRNA Delivery

Kernal Biologics, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free parking

Monthly subway pass

Subsidized commuter rail pass

Free Bluebike membership

Flexible Spending Account

Paid parental leave

Family caregiver leave

Medical leave

Life insurance

On-site cafeteria

Competitive vacation and sick days

Job summary

Kernal Bio in Boston is seeking a senior leader to direct our mRNA delivery programs, overseeing novel LNP systems for in vivo therapies. You will report to the SVP of R&D and guide a multidisciplinary team toward milestone-driven results in immuno-oncology and immunology.

We require a PhD with 8–10 years’ hands-on lipid nanoparticle experience, strong IP strategy, and excellent communication. A startup mindset and collaboration across internal/external teams are essential for success.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemical engineering, organic chemistry or a related field.
• 8-10 years of hands-on experience with lipid nanoparticle systems for mRNA and/or siRNA delivery.
• Experience with targeted LNPs and conjugation of biomaterials.
• Experience with analytical techniques for LNPs (HPLC/UPLC, LC-MS, DLS, UV-Vis, fluorescence, Ribogreen, gel/capillary electrophoresis, flow cytometry).
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Startup mind-set and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Industry experience with drug development processes and strong management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development of novel LNP compositions.
• Improve existing LNP formulations.
• Manage the LNP team.
• Advance targeted LNP delivery for in situ mRNA delivery.
• Oversee physicochemical characterization of LNP formulations.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to hit milestones.
• Guide RNA delivery strategy with emphasis on IP and deliverables.
• Prepare technical reports and regulatory documents as needed.
• Present findings at conferences and industry events.

Skills

Communication skills

Startup mindset

Team leadership

Willingness to learn

Problem solving

Education

PhD in chemical engineering or related

Tools

HPLC/UPLC

LC-MS

DLS

UV-Vis

Flow cytometry (CytoFLEX, NanoFCM)

Job description

Kernal Bio in Boston is seeking a senior leader to direct our mRNA delivery programs, overseeing novel LNP systems for in vivo therapies. You will report to the SVP of R&D and guide a multidisciplinary team toward milestone-driven results in immuno-oncology and immunology.

We require a PhD with 8–10 years’ hands-on lipid nanoparticle experience, strong IP strategy, and excellent communication. A startup mindset and collaboration across internal/external teams are essential for success.