Scientist 1 LNP

IT Engagements; California (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

IT Engagements is seeking a motivated SD_Scientist I to join the Formulation team in San Diego, CA. In this hands-on lab role, you will develop and optimize lipid nanoparticle formulations for nucleic acid delivery, working closely with senior scientists.

The ideal candidate will have 2+ years in LNP formulation, strong data analysis skills, and proficiency with Excel; DoE experience and knowledge of DLS/Zeta potential/RiboGreen assays are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field with 4+ years biopharma experience, OR a Master's with 1+ years experience.
• Minimum of 2 years hands-on LNP formulation and encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA, siRNA, or DNA).
• Experience with LNP characterization methods including DLS, Zeta potential, and Ribogreen assays.

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize formulation and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) or tLNPs encapsulating nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Implement Design of Experiments (DoE) based screening campaigns to optimize LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to fulfill formulation requests.
• Support early-stage formulation development and downstream processing activities 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

Nucleic acid encapsulation

DLS

Zeta potential

RiboGreen assays

MS Excel

DoE-based screening

Statistical data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/ Biochemistry/ Chemical Engineering

Master's degree with 1+ years industry experience

Tools

JMP

Prism

Job description

Greetings from IT Engagements

IT Engagements is a global staff augmentation firm providing a wide-range of talent on-demand and total workforce solutions. We have an immediate opening for the below position with one of our premium clients.

Job Title: SD_Scientist I - Contract role

Location: San Diego, CA (Onsite)

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Scientist 1 to join our Formulation team. In this hands-on laboratory role, you will work closely with senior scientists to execute and optimize the synthesis of targeted and non-targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for nucleic acid delivery. The successful candidate will be a collaborative team player with strong technical and data analysis skills who is ready to contribute to our non-viral delivery platform.

Responsibilities:

• Execute and optimize the formulation and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) or targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNPs) encapsulating nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies under the minor guidance of senior formulation scientists.
• Implement Design of Experiment (DoE) based screening campaigns to evaluate and establish optimal LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to support and fulfill formulation requests.
• Support early-stage formulation development and downstream processing activities when needed, including cryoprotection, scale-up, and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records documenting formulation activities and results.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to the formulation team.
• Contribute to routine lab management activities, including inventory tracking, supply ordering, buffer preparation, and autoclaving.

Requirements, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with 4+ years of biopharma industry experience, OR a Master's degree with 1+ years of industry experience.
• LNP Expertise: Minimum of 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience specializing in LNP formulation and encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA, siRNA, or DNA).
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency with standard LNP characterization methods, including Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, and Ribogreen assays.
• Software & Data: High proficiency in MS Excel is required; hands-on experience with statistical and data analysis software (e.g., JMP, Prism) is preferred.
• Core Competencies: Strong attention to detail, a track record of producing reproducible data, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively within a fast-paced team environment.
• Preferred Skills: Prior experience with targeted LNP preparation (mAb, Fab, ScFv, VHH coated LNP) and immune cell delivery is highly desirable.

Regards,
Satya
[e-mail]