Senior Associate Scientist, LNP Formulation

Kernal Bio is a venture-backed therapeutics company engineering cells inside the body using AI-designed, selective mRNA and targeted LNP technology. By developing in vivo CAR-T therapies, Kernal Bio is advancing precision treatments for autoimmune diseases and blood cancers. The company was founded by experts from MIT, Harvard, Merck, and BMS, and its leadership team brings a track record of three FDA-approved therapies and over 120 patents. With support from leading investors, including Hummingbird Ventures, Amgen Ventures, Y Combinator, and HBM. Kernal Bio is transforming the future of cell therapy design and delivery.

Job Summary:

Kernal Bio is seeking a highly motivated Senior Associate Scientist to support the development of its targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNP) platform. This role is ideal for an experienced experimental scientist who enjoys hands-on laboratory work and thrives in a fast-paced biotech environment. The Senior Associate Scientist will contribute to the development, optimization, and characterization of LNP formulations and manufacturing processes, working closely with senior scientists and cross-functional partners in CMC and biology.

This position emphasizes execution, data generation, and technical rigor, with opportunities to grow scientific independence and take increasing ownership of projects over time.

Responsibilities:

• Synthesize and characterize LNP's for preclinical studies
• Analyze LNP critical quality attributes using techniques such as Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), RiboGreen assays, HPLC, and related analytical methods.
• Support the development of antibody-LNP conjugation workflows and processes.
• Perform formulation screening studies, including buffer and excipient optimization to improve LNP stability and performance.
• Support the execution of flow cytometry-based assays for LNP screening and optimization.
• Assist with the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of LNP/mRNA manufacturing processes at bench and pilot scales.
• Assist in the development, qualification, and execution of analytical and functional assays to assess key LNP attributes.
• Analyze experimental data, maintain detailed records in ELNs, and prepare summaries and presentations for internal team discussions.
• Support technology transfer activities to internal CMC teams and external partners, as needed.
• Maintain laboratory organization, supplies, and reagent inventories for the LNP Formulation team.
• Contribute to technical discussions and documentation related to platform development and intellectual property.

Requirements:

• BS/MS in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry or related field along with 3-5 years of industry experience working with lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, or similar.
• Hands-on experience manufacturing LNPs using Microfluidics, T-mixer, or other inline mixers.
• Experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) and sterile filtration.
• Familiarity with related LNP/mRNA analytical techniques (e.g. plate-based fluorescence assays, HPLC, LC/MS).
• Experience supporting in vivo LNP studies; direct execution experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with ELN and GraphPad Prism.
• Nice To Have: Exposure to tech transfer activities or GMP manufacturing environments.
• Attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and complete deliverables within timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Core Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality experimental execution.
• Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and expand technical capabilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team while progressively developing independence.

Benefits:

• Competitive 401(k)   
• Highly competitive healthcare coverage (PPO/HMO)
• Free parking, a monthly subway pass, or a subsidized commuter rail pass