The Research Scientist in RNAi Formulations and Biophysics will be a lab-based position at GNAT Research, focused on hands-on formulation, biophysical characterization, and analytical testing of oligonucleotides for injectable delivery. This role will allow you to be at the forefront of advancing RNA therapeutics and contribute to high-impact projects in the field.

Key Interactions:

• Collaborate with peers in non-viral delivery manufacturing, oligonucleotide chemistry, stability assays, PK, and bioanalysis of oligonucleotides.

Key Responsibilities:

• Formulation & Research: Lead the development of preclinical formulations of conjugated oligonucleotides, applying advanced analytical techniques to support internal and external collaborations.
• Technology Advancements: Identify gaps in technological capabilities and provide recommendations to drive the research agenda.
• Collaboration Management: Oversee multiple external collaborations to ensure timely delivery of project milestones.
• Stability & Storage: Optimize long-term storage and stability conditions for RNAi conjugates and oligonucleotide formulations.
• Analytical Method Development: Develop robust analytical methods and assays for QC and developability assessments of oligonucleotide formulations.
• Communication & Reporting: Communicate research findings to internal teams via presentations and written reports.
• Fast-Paced Environment: Thrive in a multi-disciplinary, high-pressure environment with tight project deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • PhD with 3+ years of relevant experience (Level II) OR
  • Master’s with 3+ years of relevant experience (Level I)
• Experience:
  • Subject matter expertise in pharmaceutical sciences, oligonucleotide/peptide/antibody characterization, or related scientific fields.
  • Hands-on experience with synthesis, characterization, and purification techniques (e.g., NMR, HPLC, Mass Spectrometry, IR, silica gel/reverse-phase chromatography, TLC).
  • Extensive experience in the formulation of nucleic acid therapeutics, especially for systemic delivery.
  • Analytical method development for solubility, viscosity, degradation, and rheological assessments for complex oligonucleotides.
  • Proven experience in project management and collaboration with external CMOs.
  • Experience with high-throughput screening methods and design-of-experiment (DoE) for optimizing formulations is a plus.
• Skills:
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Familiarity with automation tools is advantageous.
  • Track record of publishing in high-impact journals.
  • Ability to stay current with industry trends, advances in RNA delivery, and clinical translation.

Top Three "Must Haves":

1. Lab experience in the formulation of siRNA or oligonucleotides for systemic delivery.
2. Hands-on analytical characterization of oligonucleotides.
3. Project management experience and successful collaboration with external CMOs.