Scientist II – LNP Formulation

Motion Recruitment; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Motion Recruitment seeks a Scientist II – LNP Formulation in San Diego, onsite, to join our Formulation team. You will execute and optimize lipid nanoparticle formulations and encapsulation of nucleic acids for in vitro and in vivo studies, under guidance.

A strong background in LNP characterization (DLS, zeta potential, Ribogreen), DOE-based screening, and data analysis with Excel and JMP/Prism is required, with 2–5+ years biopharma experience.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelors in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Engineering with 5 years biopharma experience.
• Alternative: Masters with 2 years of industry experience.
• 2+ years hands-on LNP formulation and encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA, siRNA, or DNA).
• Proficiency in LNP characterization: DLS, zeta potential, Ribogreen assays.
• Strong MS Excel skills; experience with JMP or Prism preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize formulation and characterization of lipid nanoparticles for in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Implement DoE-based screening campaigns to optimize LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to support formulation requests.
• Support early-stage formulation development and downstream processing activities including cryoprotection, scale-up, and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records, analyze data, and present results to the formulation team.
• Contribute to routine lab management including inventory, buffer prep, and autoclaving.

Skills

LNP formulation

Nucleic acid encapsulation

Data analysis

Laboratory collaboration

DoE knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Engineering

Master's degree with 2+ years industry experience

Tools

DLS

Zeta potential

RiboGreen assays

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.****