Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Motion Recruitment; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 83,000; Part time

Job summary

Motion Recruitment is seeking a hands-on Scientist II – LNP Formulation in San Diego for a 3‑month contract with potential extension. You will formulate and characterize lipid nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery, run DoE‑based optimization, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to advance the non‑viral delivery platform. A strong background in LNP formulation and analytical methods is required, with 2+ years in a related role and 5+ years if holding a Bachelor’s degree.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related with 5+ years biopharma experience or Master’s with 2+ years.
• 2+ years hands‑on LNP formulation and encapsulation of nucleic acids (mRNA, siRNA, or DNA).
• Proficiency in LNP characterization methods (DLS, zeta potential, Ribogreen).

Responsibilities

• Execute and optimize LNP formulation and characterization for in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Conduct DoE-based screening campaigns to identify optimal compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to fulfill formulation requests.
• Support early‑stage formulation development, including cryoprotection, scale‑up and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records of formulation activities and results.
• Analyze and present experimental data to the team.
• Assist with routine lab management and inventory tasks.

Skills

DoE methodology

Analytical skills

Excel proficiency

Attention to detail

Team communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related (5+ years in biopharma)

Master’s degree with 2+ years of industry experience

Tools

Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

Zeta potential

Ribogreen assays

MS Excel

JMP

Prism

Job description

We’re seeking a hands‑on Scientist II – LNP Formulation to join our San Diego team on a 3-month contract, with a possible extension through next year. In this role, you’ll formulate and characterize lipid nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery, support DoE-based optimization and early‑stage development, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to advance our non‑viral delivery platform.

Job Title: Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Job Duration: 3 months with extension till next year

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 5+ years of biopharma industry experience, OR a Master’s 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.