Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Motion Recruitment; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Motion Recruitment seeks a Scientist II to join the LNP Formulation team onsite in San Diego, CA. The role focuses on hands-on formulation and optimization of lipid nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery, collaborating with senior scientists and cross-functional teams.

The candidate should have 5+ years biopharma experience with a degree in a relevant field or a Master's with 2+ years of industry experience, and must possess LNP formulation expertise and data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 5+ years biopharma experience, or Master's with 2+ years industry experience.
• Minimum 2 years hands-on LNP formulation experience and encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA, siRNA, or DNA).
• Proficient in LNP characterization methods (DLS, zeta potential, Ribogreen).

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize formulation and characterization of LNPs for in vitro and in vivo studies under supervision.
• DoE-based screening to optimize LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to fulfill formulation requests.
• Support early-stage formulation development, scale-up, and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records and present data to the team.
• Contribute to lab management tasks including inventory and buffer preparation.

Skills

LNP formulation

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Biopharma experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in related field

Tools

MS Excel

JMP

Prism

Job description

Title: Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Description:

Onsite: San Diego, CA. No relocations.

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: Bachelors degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with 5+ years of biopharma industry experience, OR a Masters degree with 2+ 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.