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Kernal Biologics is a venture-backed therapeutics company developing in vivo CAR-T therapies using AI-designed mRNA and targeted lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology for autoimmune diseases and blood cancers. The company was founded by experts from MIT, Harvard, Merck, and BMS, with backing from Hummingbird Ventures, Amgen, Lilly, HBM, ARPA-H, and NVIDIA.
The Director of LNP Formulation will lead the company's mRNA delivery efforts, reporting to the SVP of R&D. This role oversees the development of novel LNP systems for in vivo mRNA delivery and manages the LNP team. Key responsibilities include:
• Oversee development and optimization of novel LNP compositions and existing formulations
• Manage the LNP team and provide technical leadership
• Advance targeted LNP delivery approaches for in situ mRNA delivery
• Oversee physicochemical characterization of LNP formulations using analytical techniques (HPLC/UPLC, LC-MS, DLS, flow cytometry, etc.)
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to deliver key milestones
• Guide the company's RNA delivery strategy with emphasis on IP and deliverables
• Stay current on RNA delivery literature and prepare technical reports and white papers
• Prepare regulatory, IP, and publication-ready scientific documents
• Present findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences
The ideal candidate has a PhD in chemical engineering, organic chemistry, or related field, with 8-10 years of hands-on experience with LNP systems for mRNA/siRNA delivery. Required expertise includes targeted LNPs, biomaterial conjugation, and analytical characterization techniques. Strong communication, documentation, and management skills are essential. Experience with novel lipid design and drug development processes is highly valued. The role requires a startup mindset, problem-solving orientation, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced biotech environment.
