Scientist/Senior Scientist, Synthetic Biology (mRNA Therapeutics)

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:

We are seeking a PhD Scientist or a Senior Scientist with deep expertise in using synthetic biology tools to design, engineer, and construct template DNAs for in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA production. Successful candidates will also synthesize, purify, and test mRNAs in vitro in various human and murine cell lines.

Responsibilities:

• DNA template design and construction. Partner with external CDMO’s for DNA synthesis and production for research and preclinical DNA.
• Analyze DNA template quality (e.g., linearization efficiency, poly-A tail length, percentage of supercoiled plasmid) to improve mRNA quality
• Support internal mRNA production (e.g., IVT reactions chromatography, UFDF) for research and preclinical drug substance
• Analyze mRNA product quality via Nanodrop, Bioanalyzer, HPLC, etc.
• Transfect and test IVT mRNAs in vitro in mammalian cell systems
• Quantify mRNA translation by using ELISA, Flow Cytometer, luminescence etc.
• Optimize the mRNA production processes
• Execute high-throughput RNA synthesis, purification, and screening of early-stage drug candidates
• Independently design and execute experiments to develop and optimize processes for mRNA synthesis
• Contribute creatively and strategically to assay design, development, and process optimization.
• Collaborate closely with cross functional teams.
• Maintain thorough electronic lab notebooks and documentation records
• Deliver reproducible and impactful results under ambitious timelines, present results in cross-functional meetings to a wide audience, both internally and externally.
• Proactively evaluate new technologies, be versed with current literature, and implement new features and functionality into DNA & mRNA platforms.
• Execute and troubleshoot standard protocols, develop and adapt new protocols into practice, and query literature to incorporate additional assays as needed
• Collect, archive, process, and organize biological samples
• Identify and lead external research relationships with academic and commercial partners.

Requirements:

• PhD in Biological Engineering, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field, with specialization in synthetic biology
• 4+ years of industry experience preferred for Senior Scientist level.
• Expertise in RNA vector design, codon engineering, plasmid engineering, in vitro transcription, RNA purification, and transfection in mammalian systems
• Advanced knowledge and significant experience with primer design, DNA isolation, and DNA assembly (e.g. Gibson)
• Experience with diverse molecular biology and microbiology techniques for analysis of DNA, RNA, and protein. (e.g RT-qPCR, Western Blots, ddPCR, ELISA, etc.)
• Experience with routine mammalian cell culture
• Analysis of protein expression and gene reporter systems with various techniques such as flow cytometry, cell luminescence, and fluorescent microscopy
• Creative, innovative, and self-driven problem solver with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with highly skilled teams in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of conveying technical information in a clear and thorough manner.
• Preferred: in vivo skills with rodents (IV, IP, PO dosing), in vivo imaging, blood/tissue collection.
• Preferred: Immune cell isolation and transfection experience.
• Preferred: NGS library preparation experience.
• Preferred: MPRA experience.
• Preferred: Experience with automation (e.g., Opentrons)

Benefits:

• Highly competitive healthcare coverage (health, vision, and dental)
• Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account
• Paid parental leave, family caregiver leaves, medical leave
• Competitive 401k
• Paid life insurance coverage
• Generous vacation and sick days
• On-site subsidized cafeteria
• Free monthly subway passes or a subsidized commuter rail pass
• Free MIT Athletic 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.