Co-op; Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls

Position:    Co-op; Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (6-month term)

Company Overview:   

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 seeks a highly motivated co-op for the CMC team. The successful candidate will support critical CMC activities for the development of next generation mRNA-LNP therapeutics, including routine production & analysis, process development, and analytical development. Successful candidates will also support authoring and reviewing of CMC documentation including protocols, batch records, and SOPs.

Responsibilities:

• Support internal production (e.g., IVT, chromatography, LNP mixing, filtration, etc.) and analytics (e.g., capillary electrophoresis, ribogreen, dotblot, etc.) of mRNA and LNP materials for preclinical studies.
• Execute experiments to optimize mRNA and LNP processes and unit operations.
• Author and review CMC documentation including process development protocols and batch records.
• Maintain thorough and detailed electronic laboratory notebooks
• Analyze, interpret and summarize experimental data
• Communicate results to team and management in technical reports and oral presentations
• Participate in experimental design and troubleshooting efforts

Requirements:

• B.S/M.S candidate in Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry or a similar field
• 1 year of academic or industry research experience and familiarity with common lab practice/procedure is required
• Familiarity with mRNA/LNP unit operations (in vitro transcription, chromatography, normal flow filtration, tangential flow filtration, etc.) is a plus
• Ability to analyze, summarize and communicate scientific data
• Attention to detail, ability to multi-task and troubleshoot
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent record-keeping and data management skills
• Experience working in fast-paced startup environments
• Ability to work independently while effectively interacting and collaborating in a team environment
• Adaptability and enthusiasm for new challenges, innate curiosity, and a passion for learning

Benefits: 

• Free monthly subway passes or a subsidized commuter rail pass
• Free MIT Athletic Membership
• Free Bluebikes Membership

Kernal is dedicated to providing a diverse work environment and is committed to equal employment opportunities 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.