Director, LNP Formulation

Kernal Bio is a VC-backed Biotech company that is creating mRNA drugs that instruct specific cells in the body on how to make their own medicine. Messenger RNA technology has proven extremely useful in rapidly developing vaccines against COVID-19. Kernal Bio is developing the next-generation of mRNA therapy, called mRNA 2.0. It solves a critical problem of cell selectivity that affects many therapeutic candidates. Cell specific mRNAs are formulated with proprietary, best-in-class LNPs validated in non-human primates (NHPs). Kernal Bio developed a proprietary library of ionizable lipids comprising lipids from different lipid classes.

Based in Cambridge, MA, the company is backed by Hummingbird Ventures, Amgen Ventures, HBM Partners, NASA, and Boeing. With roots at MIT, Harvard, and biopharma industry, Kernal Bio’s interdisciplinary team of MDs and PhDs previously built a successful Biotech company and has deep expertise in nucleic acid-based therapeutics and immuno-oncology space.

Job Summary:

Kernal is seeking an individual with deep expertise in RNA delivery space to lead our mRNA delivery efforts. This person will report to the VP of R&D and will be responsible for overseeing the development novel LNP (lipid nanoparticle) systems for in vivo mRNA delivery to support our immuno-oncology and immunology efforts. The successful candidate must be able to work in a fast paced and highly dynamic Biotech environment. Ideal candidate will be a leader and a great team player with excellent communication skills and effective, inspiring management style.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the development of novel LNP compositions
• Improve existing LNP formulations
• Grow and manage company’s LNP team
• Advance targeted LNP delivery with novel approaches for in situ mRNA delivery
• Oversee physicochemical characterization of LNP formulations
• Work closely with internal teams and external collaborators and ensure delivery on key milestones
• Guide company’s RNA delivery strategy, with a particular emphasis on IP and key deliverables
• Stay up-to-date on RNA delivery literature and prepare technical reports and white papers
• Prepare technical documents and manuscripts for regulatory filings, IP prosecution, and publications
• Present scientific findings internally and externally at key scientific conferences and industry events

Requirements:

• PhD in chemical engineering, organic chemistry or a related field
• 8-10 years of hands-on experience with lipid nanoparticle systems for mRNA and/or siRNA delivery
• Experience with analytical techniques for LNPs such as HPLC/UPLC, DLS, UV-Vis, fluorescence spectrophotometry, Ribogreen assay, gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, etc.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written)
• Excellent record keeping skills (eLN)
• Startup mind-set (innovative, enthusiastic, team player, and problem solver)
• Willingness to learn, teach, and grow in a fast-pace environment
• Industry experience, strong management skills and basic knowledge of the drug development processes are preferred
• Proficiency in synthesis of novel lipids and conjugation of biomaterials is a plus

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package
• Excellent healthcare coverage
• Highly competitive 401(k)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Generous vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave, family caregiver leave, medical leave
• Comprehensive insurance coverage
• On-site cafe with complementary snacks and drinks
• Free parking, monthly subway pass, or a subsidized commuter rail pass
• Free MIT athletics gym membership
• Free Bluebikes membership

Kernal Bio is dedicated to providing a diverse work environment and is committed to equal employment opportunity for all its employees and qualified applicants. We do not discriminate in employment practices for reasons of race, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, religion, disability, or any other legally protected status. Kernal Bio will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.