Scientist/Sr. Scientist: LNP Formulation

At Kernal Bio, we engineer human cells inside the body using selective mRNA-LNP technology to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. Our AI-designed mRNAs, delivered via antibody-decorated lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), ensure precise targeting and minimize off-target effects. Our KR-402 program focuses on hematological malignancies and autoimmune disorders, achieving >90% in vivo delivery efficiency with T-cell-targeted LNPs. The KR-335 program, targeting solid tumors resistant to standard immunotherapies, shows a 100x therapeutic index with strong efficacy and tolerability in preclinical models, including mice and non-human primates.

With roots at MIT, Harvard, Merck, and BMS, our management team has spearheaded the development of three FDA-approved therapies and holds over 120 patents. Based in Cambridge, MA, and backed by Hummingbird Ventures, Amgen Ventures, and NASA, Kernal Bio is revolutionizing mRNA therapeutics by leveraging AI to deliver precision treatments within the body.

Job Summary:

Kernal Bio seeks an exceptional, highly motivated Scientist/Sr. Scientist to contribute to developing its targeting lipid nanoparticle platform. The successful candidate will work as part of the team responsible for developing and characterizing the manufacturing process of lipid nanoparticle systems, supporting the tech transfer to the CMC team and external partners, and analyzing/presenting results. The successful candidate must be able to work in a fast paced and highly dynamic Biotech environment. Ideal candidate will be a great team player with excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and characterize novel LNP formulations and components using Dynamic Light Scattering, Ribogreen, HPLC, etc.
• Support the design and execution of flow cytometry-related experiments pertaining to LNP screening and optimization.
• Screen final formulation buffers and excipients to improve the long-term stability of LNPs
• Execute in vivo experiments with LNP compositions
• Develop new assays or detailed investigations of specific LNP attributes as required.
• Development, optimization, and troubleshooting of LNP/mRNA manufacturing processes at various scales.
• Analyze, summarize, and present experimental results to team members and management.
• Contribute to maintaining stocks and supplies for operations within the LNP Formulation team.
• Participate in technology transfer activities related to manufacturing processes and/or analytical methods to external partner programs.
• Maintain up-to-date records and prepare internal reports.
• Contribute to technical discussions & intellectual property related to the development and application of Kernal’s proprietary technologies

Requirements:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry or related field.
• PhD with 2 years of industry experience in process development in the context of lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, or similar.
• Experience in manufacturing LNPs using Microfluidics, T-mixer, or other inline mixers.
• Experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) and sterile filtration.
• Proficiency with related LNP/mRNA analytical techniques (e.g. plate-based fluorescence assays, HPLC, LC/MS)
• Proficiency with in vivo LNP testing (IV administration, IVIS imaging, etc.)
• Proficiency with biological assays critical for identifying key characteristics or properties of lipid nanoparticles
• Familiarity with ELN and GraphPad Prism.
• Experience with process modeling and Design of Experiment (DoE) statistical tools.
• Preferred: Experience with flow cytometry principles and executing experiments
• Nice To Have: Experience with tech transfer to GMP manufacturing.
• Attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and complete deliverables within timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptability and enthusiasm for new challenges and a passion for learning in a fast-paced startup setting.
• Ability to work independently while effectively interacting and collaborating in a team environment.

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 complimentary snacks and drinks
• Free MIT athletics gym membership
• Free Bluebikes membership

Kernal is dedicated towards 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 will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.