Scientist II - LNP Formulation

Kelly Services; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelly Services in San Diego, CA, is seeking a Scientist II to join the LNP Formulation team. This onsite role collaborates with senior scientists to optimize lipid nanoparticle formulations for nucleic acid delivery.

You will execute DoE-driven screening, characterize LNPs, analyze data, and contribute to early-stage formulation development, scale-up, and stability studies. This position requires a strong background in chemistry or bioengineering, plus hands-on LNP experience and impeccable

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a chemistry/biochemistry/engineering field with 5+ years in biopharma or a Master's with 2+ years of industry experience.
• 2+ years of hands-on LNP formulation and nucleic acid encapsulation experience (mRNA/siRNA/DNA).
• Proficiency with LNP characterization methods (DLS, zeta potential, Ribogreen).

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 to optimize LNP compositions and processing parameters.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to fulfill formulation requests and support early-stage development.
• Assist with downstream processing activities including cryoprotection, scale-up, and stability studies.
• Maintain detailed records of formulation activities and results; analyze and present data to the team.

Skills

LNP formulation

DoE screening

Data analysis

MS Excel

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Master's degree

Tools

JMP

Prism

Excel

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.

Motion Recruitment Partners (MRP) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants must be currently authorized to work on a full‑time basis in the country for which they are applying, and no sponsorship is currently available. Employment is subject to the successful completion of a pre‑employment screening. Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process as required under MRP’s Employment Accommodation policy. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.