Scientist II, LNP

CRISPR Therapeutics•Boston, MA

1d•$130,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

CRISPR Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Scientist II to join their LNP team. This is a critical, hands-on laboratory role focused on the design, development, and characterization of novel nanoparticle delivery systems. The ideal candidate will have experience in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) design, formulation and characterization, with proven experience in designing novel solutions for encapsulation of different nucleic acid payloads (such as mRNA, siRNA, etc.). Experience in the space of target delivery or extra-hepatic delivery strategies is highly desirable. You will be part of a team responsible for driving the development of our delivery platform, from initial concept and screening through in vivo proof of concept studies.

Requirements

PhD with 2-5 years of relevant experience or postdoctoral experience or non-PhD with 10-12+ years of relevant experience
Deep, hands-on experience in the formulation of lipid nanoparticles or similar non-viral delivery systems.
Demonstrated experience with encapsulating nucleic acids and associated analytical techniques.
Experience with bioconjugation chemistry and protein modification and purification.
Proficiency in nanoparticle characterization techniques.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to design experiments independently.
Excellent communication skills and a highly collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the space of target delivery or extra-hepatic delivery strategies is highly desirable.
Knowledge of LNP process development, scale-up and stability testing.
Experience with HPLC/UPLC for lipid and payload analysis.
Familiar with in vivo models for evaluating drug delivery systems.
Experience working in a fast-paced biotech or pharmaceutical industry environment.
Understanding of Design of Experiments (DoE) principles

Responsibilities

Design, formulate and optimize novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) compositions through different production methods and scale.
Perform comprehensive analytical characterization of nanoparticles including but not limited to size, zeta potential, morphology, payload and lipid quantification, encapsulation efficiency, etc.
Develop and execute bioconjugation strategies to functionalize LNP surfaces with targeting ligands of different sizes or nature.
Analyze, interpret and present complex experimental data clearly and concisely at team and company meetings.
Work closely with cross-functional teams to design and execute experiments that evaluate formulation performance, toxicity, and efficacy.
Stay current with scientific literature, troubleshoot technical challenges, and proactively evaluate new technologies to improve our delivery platform.
Maintain meticulous and accurate electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and contribute to technical reports and regulatory filings.
Collaborate with IP counsels to support CRISPR Therapeutics patent applications and prosecutions