Scientist – LNP Discovery

Company Overview:

Strand Therapeutics is a clinical stage biotechnology company utilizing synthetic biology to genetically program mRNA to deliver truly revolutionary immunotherapies to patients.

Building on the idea of creating smart therapies based on Boolean logic circuits, Strand was started by biological engineers working together at MIT who were seeking to apply the concept of the emerging field of mRNA therapeutics. Strand's technology is therapeutic-area and mRNA modality agnostic where therapeutic proteins are encoded onto modified, self-replicating, or circular mRNA backbones which in turn are programmed with cell-specific sensors and circuits.

Today, Strand has established multiple programmable mRNA platforms with one clinical stage asset and several programs in preclinical development as well as early discovery. Our lead program, STX-001, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical trial for solid tumors. Our corporate headquarters is located in the Fenway district of Boston, Massachusetts.

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small but extremely productive team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work in a matrix-based environment and be a part of the future strategy of the company.

We are looking for a highly motivated and innovative candidate for the role of Scientist of LNP Discovery. The expectation is that the candidate will have experience in the world of LNP discovery research particularly focused on the successful delivery of nucleic acid payloads. Reporting to the Principal Scientist of LNP Discovery, the right candidate will be a strategic thinker that brings a leadership presence and enthusiasm for Strand along with a deep scientific knowledge.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Help advance Strand’s mRNA delivery platform and capabilities.
• Lead and contribute to lipid innovation and development/optimization of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations.
• Characterize the physicochemical properties and evaluate therapeutic indices of (lipid) nanoparticle formulations using standard or newly developed in-house assays.
• Execute LNP composition optimization and screening assays.
• Produce (lipid) nanoparticle formulations to support internal and partnered programs.
• Compile data reports and communicate the results with relevant team(s).
• Research and identify new opportunities and novel project ideas related to mRNA delivery that support Strand’s vision.
• Maintain and establish new relationships with outside collaborators which provide access to proprietary (lipid) nanoparticles.
• Write study protocols, technical reports and SOPs that support the drug discovery efforts of Strand.
• Interact with IP counsel/consultants to assist with patent prosecution.

Qualifications:

• B.S. or Advanced Degree with 6-7+ years of industry experience with a focus on lipid chemistry, nanoparticle formulation and in vivo delivery of nucleic acid-based payloads.
• Experience with lipid chemistry required.
• Experience with production and analytical characterization of (lipid) nanoparticles required.
• Prior experience with (high throughput) screenings of (lipid) nanoparticles preferred.
• Prior experience with development of tissue/cell targeting (lipid) nanoparticles would be a plus.
• Excellent knowledge of the scientific literature in the field of mRNA delivery.
• Demonstrated experience working across internal and external research teams.
• Highly analytical, decisive, and goal-oriented while maintaining the highest scientific and ethical standards.
• Ability to quickly adapt to change and thrive in a dynamic and entrepreneurial early-stage environment.
• A strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work independently.

Strand offers a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, team-focused small company environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, open PTO, onsite lunch catering, commuter support and more) and work/life flexibility and integration. Being part of the Strand team allows you to become part of a small team that supports professional development while working together to meet Strand’s goals. 

Strand Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable law. Strand does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $100,000 - $140,000 annually plus bonus and equity incentives