Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, LNP Production

Flagship Pioneering•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

Mirai Bio is seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate to support the development and advancement of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for nucleic acid therapeutics. The role involves designing, producing, characterizing, and optimizing LNP formulations for preclinical research and genetic medicine development. The successful candidate will contribute to the improvement of Mirai Bio’s delivery platform and work across multiple programs and partners to advance delivery vehicles for diverse nucleic acid cargos. This hands-on position calls for LNP formulation and production expertise, sound scientific judgment, attention to detail, and effectiveness in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. The position encompasses LNP production at multiple process scales, from small-scale formulation and process optimization to larger-scale production. The Research Associate will use and develop processes with manufacturing and process-development equipment, troubleshoot and improve production processes, support reproducible production and characterization workflows, document and analyze experiments, and communicate findings to cross-functional teams.

Requirements

BS or MS in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, or a related scientific discipline.
For Research Associate II: BS plus 2–4 years, or MS plus 0–2 years, of relevant industry or research experience.
For Senior Research Associate: BS plus 5 years, or MS plus 3 years, of relevant industry or research experience.
Hands-on experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation and production, particularly for nucleic acid cargos such as mRNA, siRNA, or other genetic medicines.
Experience with LNP processing techniques and equipment across multiple scales, including mixers, pumping systems, TFF, and related unit operations.
Familiarity with analytical techniques for characterizing LNPs, including particle size, polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency, and other relevant physicochemical attributes.
Ability to independently execute experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, interpret data, and drive projects forward.
Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
Collaborative and adaptable team player, comfortable working independently and partnering across functions.
Ability to prioritize effectively and consistently deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

Design, formulate, produce, and characterize LNPs for preclinical research supporting internal platform work and external partnerships.
Execute LNP production at multiple scales, from small-scale formulation and process optimization through larger-scale production.
Operate and develop processes using LNP manufacturing and process-development equipment, including mixers, pumping systems, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and related technologies.
Troubleshoot formulation and process challenges and contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of LNP production processes.
Collaborate with scientists and cross-functional teams to design experiments, interpret results, and advance program objectives.
Support the development and implementation of robust, reproducible LNP production and characterization workflows.
Maintain accurate and thorough records of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in electronic laboratory notebooks.
Analyze and communicate experimental results, and present findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams.
Contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, continuous learning, and operational excellence.