We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Synthetic Chemist to join our team and help drive the design and synthesis of novel lipids, particularly cationic and ionizable lipids, for use in mRNA-LNP formulations. This role will be crucial in advancing our mRNA vaccine platform and ensuring the efficacy, safety, and targeted delivery of our therapeutic solutions. If you have a strong background in lipid design for nucleic acid delivery and are eager to make a direct impact in the field of mRNA therapeutics, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities :
- Lipid Design & Synthesis : Independently generate novel lipid designs, with a focus on cationic and ionizable lipids, to be used in mRNA-LNP formulations. Target lipid designs should aim for enhanced mRNA expression in vivo, increased thermostability, reduced toxicity, and improved targeting to specific tissues and cell types.
- In Vitro Screening : Lead the high-throughput in vitro screening of lipid formulations and LNPs to evaluate their efficiency and suitability for mRNA delivery. Develop and optimize experimental workflows for rapid lipid evaluation.
- Lipid Formulation : Work closely with the formulation team to design and optimize lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for the delivery of nucleic acids (RNA, DNA) to achieve high encapsulation efficiency, stability, and cellular uptake.
- In Vivo Performance : Leverage your understanding of how lipid formulations behave in vivo and contribute to optimizing lipid structures to enhance mRNA expression and delivery while minimizing reactogenicity and toxicity.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration : Work with cross-disciplinary teams, including molecular biology, pharmacology, and analytical chemistry, to support the development of lipid formulations and advance them from discovery through preclinical studies.
- Problem-Solving & Innovation : Provide innovative solutions to complex challenges related to lipid formulation and mRNA delivery, continually improving the overall mRNA-LNP platform.
- Documentation & Reporting : Ensure accurate documentation of experiments, data analysis, and lipid design strategies. Prepare and present findings clearly to internal stakeholders, including leadership, and collaborate in writing scientific publications and patent applications.
Qualifications :
Education : MSc or PhD in Synthetic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field.Experience : At least 5 years of experience in synthetic chemistry with a focus on lipid design, particularly for nucleic acid delivery applications (e.g., mRNA or DNA delivery).Key Skills :
Proven expertise in the design and synthesis of novel cationic and ionizable lipids.Strong experience with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation for RNA or DNA delivery, including optimizing particle size, stability, and cellular uptake.Experience with high-throughput screening techniques for novel lipid and LNP formulations.Familiarity with the process of lipid modification to enhance in vivo performance, including improving mRNA expression, targeting specific tissues, and reducing reactogenicity.Hands-on experience with lipid characterization techniques, including NMR, HPLC, and mass spectrometry.Solid understanding of the relationship between lipid structure and function in mRNA-LNP systems.Knowledge of the challenges and best practices in scaling up lipid synthesis and LNP formulation from discovery to preclinical trials.Additional Skills (Preferred) :Familiarity with computational lipid design and modeling tools.Experience working in a collaborative, fast-paced, and interdisciplinary environment.Strong publication record or patents in lipid chemistry or nucleic acid delivery.Ability to mentor junior chemists and contribute to team development.What We Offer :
Competitive Compensation : We offer a highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.Health Insurance : Comprehensive health insurance coverage for you and your immediate family (including pre-existing conditions). For remote candidates, the health insurance package may vary based on the country of residence.Collaborative Work Environment : Join a dynamic, passionate team focused on solving cutting-edge challenges in mRNA delivery and vaccine development.Growth Opportunities : As we continue to scale, there are significant opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a direct impact in the field of biotechnology and public health.Location :
While we prefer candidates to work in person at our lab in Hyderabad, we are open to considering exceptional candidates from anywhere in the world who wish to work remotely.
Skills Required
Elisa, Research And Development, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Clinical Trials, Method Development