LNP Formulation Scientist - Nucleic Acid Delivery Expert

Planet Pharma; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Planet Pharma seeks a motivated Scientist 1 to join our Formulation team to execute and optimize lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for nucleic acid delivery. You will work closely with senior scientists, using DoE to optimize compositions, and collaborate across teams to fulfill formulation requests.

You will analyze data, maintain rigorous records, and contribute to early-stage development, scale-up, and stability studies while supporting lab operations in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related with 5+ years of biopharma industry experience, OR a Master's with 2+ years of industry experience.
• Minimum 2 years hands-on experience in LNP formulation and encapsulation of nucleic acids.
• Proficiency with LNP characterization methods including DLS and Zeta potential, plus Ribogreen assays.
• Strong Excel skills and experience with statistical software (JMP, Prism).
• Strong attention to detail, reproducible data, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize formulation and characterization of LNPs or tLNPs encapsulating nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Implement DoE-based screening campaigns to identify optimal LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support formulation requests and deliver timely results.
• Support early-stage formulation development, including cryoprotection, scale-up, and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records of formulation activities and results.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to the formulation team.
• Contribute to routine lab management, including inventory, buffer prep, and autoclaving.

Skills

LNP formulation

DoE screening

Data analysis

DLS

Zeta potential

Ribogreen

MS Excel

JMP

Prism

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Engineering

Master's in related field

Tools

MS Excel

JMP

Prism

DLS instrumentation

Zeta potential instrumentation

Job description

Planet Pharma seeks a motivated Scientist 1 to join our Formulation team to execute and optimize lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for nucleic acid delivery. You will work closely with senior scientists, using DoE to optimize compositions, and collaborate across teams to fulfill formulation requests.

You will analyze data, maintain rigorous records, and contribute to early-stage development, scale-up, and stability studies while supporting lab operations in a fast-paced environment.