Senior Research Associate / Scientist, Lipid Nanoparticle Discovery - Lipid Nanoparticle, Discovery

Company

Addition Therapeutics is at the forefront of biotechnology innovation and is building the next generation of gene therapy using our proprietary PRINT™ (Programmable RNA-guided Integration Technology) platform. PRINT™ redefines genetic medicine by enabling development of RNA-only therapeutics capable of inserting any genetic element into specific safe harbor sites within the genome. Operating from state-of-the-art labs in South San Francisco, we are a Series A-stage company with programs across rare and common diseases.

The Role

Addition Therapeutics is currently seeking a highly motivated contract SRA / Scientist, Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Discovery to support the development and production of lipid nanoparticle formulations for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. The ideal candidate will join the Addition Therapeutics LNP Discovery Team and will be responsible to design, produce, characterize, and optimize LNP formulations to support preclinical research and the development of the company’s novel gene-supplement technology.

The successful candidate will contribute to the continuous improvement of Addition Therapeutics’ delivery platform and work across multiple programs to produce formulations that support the company’s in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies. This hands-on role requires strong technical expertise in LNP formulation and production, sound scientific judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment. This position is based in South San Francisco.

About The Role

• Design, formulate, and characterize lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations across a diverse range of lipid compositions and therapeutic payloads to support in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies.
• Execute LNP production using microfluidic and jet mixing techniques, ensuring reproducibility, product quality, and scalability.
• Apply expertise in LNP physicochemical characterization techniques, including RiboGreen assays, DLS, zeta-potential, TNS assay, as well as RNA extraction, capillary electrophoresis and endotoxin testing.
• Routinely prepare LNP formulations according to approved protocols for in vivo studies, taking into account the route of administration, animal species, and dose level.
• Coordinate with CROs and travel to in vivo study sites to prepare materials for dosing.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of LNP production by troubleshooting formulation and process challenges and conducting stability studies to optimize formulation parameters in support of drug product efficacy and safety.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with RNA Process Development, Analytical Development, and In Vivo teams to advance therapeutic programs toward clinical development.
• Maintain rigorous and detailed records of experimental protocols, results, and material inventory in an electronic laboratory notebook (ELN).
• Critically review and analyze data, communicate results and conclusions, present at cross-functional meetings.

What We're Looking For

• Relevant industry or academic research experience:
  • PhD in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, Biochemical engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field with 1-3 years of relevant industry or research experience.
  • BS +5 years or MS +3 years of relevant industry or research experience.Experience with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and production, particularly for genetic payloads such as RNA.
• Expertise with common analytical techniques used to characterize LNPs including measurements of RiboGreen assays, DLS, zeta-potential, endotoxin testing, TNS assay, and other relevant physicochemical attributes as well as RNA extraction and capillary electrophoresis.
• Experience with processing techniques including dialysis, ultrafiltration, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and sterile filtration.
• Experience with LNP preparation for in vivo studies including excellent aseptic technique and familiarity with dosing routes, dosing levels, and dosing volumes for various animal models (direct animal handling not required).
• Experience correlating formulation attributes with in vivo performance (rodent, NHP) highly desirable.
• Experience coordinating with external in vivo CROs.
• Strong understanding of drug delivery systems and genomic medicines.
• Collaborative and adaptable team player who is equally comfortable working independently and partnering across functions.
• Ability to prioritize effectively and consistently deliver high-quality results in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Travel may be required up to 15% of the time.

Work Environment and Travel Requirements

This role involves on-site work and travel to contracted research organization (CRO) facilities. Access to these facilities requires completion of certain health screenings and medical clearances, including proof of MMR immunity and TB screening, as required by the facility. Candidates should be comfortable completing these requirements if selected for the position.

Compensation

This is a contract position with an estimated hourly rate of $65-$75. Exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.