Investigator II – mRNA Formulation

The Opportunity

Are you interested in working at the cutting-edge of formulation and drug delivery science? We are looking for a highly motivated formulator with a proven record in using innovative delivery technologies to push forward vaccine formulation science, especially in the area of oligonucleotide delivery. The selected individual will join our Formulation and Delivery team to lead the way in designing next-generation lipid nanoparticles, and beyond, for mRNA vaccine delivery.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our expanding team in Waltham, MA. With the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and a deep expertise in influenza science we are one of the world leaders in the production of the influenza vaccine. We operate as one integrated global company, drawing together expert staff from different countries to collaborate. Together, we're working on the front line to protect communities from seasonal influenza and global pandemic threats. When you join Seqirus, you join a team dedicated to making a difference in people's lives. It's a feeling of possibility, creativity, and purpose that inspires us every day.

As the Investigator, you will work within the Formulation and Delivery group, and you will help design and optimize the next generation of RNA vaccines. Specifically, you will improve the performance of the sa-mRNA lipid nanoparticle vaccine by supporting formulation and process improvement. You will also design and implement experiments to better understand and expand the RNA delivery platform.

The Role

• Provides technical and laboratory expertise to improve the understanding of formulation science for mRNA, protein, and adjuvanted protein vaccine delivery.

• Provide technical expertise and leadership on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation design and manufacturing process improvement for mRNA delivery and multi-platform (e.g. protein and mRNA) combination product formulation development.

• Develop high-throughput formulation screening methods for vaccine formulations to accelerate project timelines.

• Provide scientific leadership and operational leadership in formulation design and optimization to improve the stability of LNP formulations

• Provide scientific oversight on vaccine formulation development including review and advice on study design, modelling, data analysis, and validation, and suggesting new approaches.

• Collaborate with internal and external partners in developing next-generation delivery systems for mRNA vaccines and beyond.

• Apply knowledge in drug delivery systems and corresponding analytics to design and execute in vitro and in vivo animal studies to evaluate formulation changes and enable new vaccine discovery.

• Support the development of an LNP platform development that apply across multiple projects and accelerate project timelines.

• Prepare data summary presentation, compile data, and author technical reports.

• Guide and coach junior scientists in experimental design, data analysis and day-to-day laboratory operation.

• Support day-to-day operations of the laboratory including ordering laboratory supplies (PPE), keeping laboratory inventory current, maintain laboratory safety protocols, develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and manage laboratory databases.

• Support the production of phase-appropriate formulations for in vivo animal studies in Research

• Demonstrate understanding, ownership, and accountability of assigned Research projects

• Present scientific project information to colleagues and managers at cross-functional meetings, staff meetings and briefings for senior leaders. Present poster sessions and abstracts to scientific audiences at scientific meetings and conferences.

• Conduct self-directed literature review to improve personal understanding and to troubleshoot and advance projects

• Improve efficiency of methods and processes. 

• Compose and revise protocols and technical documents. 

• Work and communicate effectively with others within and across functions

• Demonstrate a high level of engagement and contribute to scientific discussions in meetings

• Pursue cross-training opportunities or learn new technologies as needed to fulfill role

• Help build and promote a positive culture and working environment

Your skills and experience

• PhD with 4+ years’ postdoctoral or industrial experience in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Pharmaceutical Science, or related field.

• Lipid nanoparticle formulation experience is highly desirable.

• Physical sciences and an analytical approach to solving scientific problems is required.

• The ability to produce accurate and reproducible results while working on multiple tasks is required.

• Able to collect, analyze and present scientific data.

• Familiarity with organic chemistry and the ability to read and interpret chemical structures is valued.

• Experience with common laboratory and analytical techniques, such as UV/vis spectroscopy, HPLC, fluorescence assays, is valued.

• Experience with nanoparticle characterization techniques such as DLS-Zeta measurement is a benefit.

• Experience working with any of the following is considered a value for this position: lipid-based nanoparticles, other drug delivery vehicles, nucleic acid transfection.

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401K, and PTO available from your first day of hire.

Our Benefits

Seqirus is committed to attracting and retaining world-class employees who are valued for their contributions to achieving business objectives. Learn more about some of the benefits you can participate in when you join Seqirus.

Seqirus is part of CSL Limited (ASX: CSL). As one of the largest influenza vaccine providers in the world, Seqirus is a major contributor to the prevention of influenza globally and a transcontinental partner in pandemic preparedness. Learn more about Seqirus.

As a global organisation with employees in 35+ countries, CSL embraces diversity, equity and inclusion. Learn more about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Seqirus.