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Salary: USD 105,000 - 114,000 / annual
Strand Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering programmable mRNA therapeutics. The company has developed a proprietary Signal Stack platform integrating EverScript circular RNA, AmpliScript self-replicating RNA, SignalPath targeted delivery, and SignalLock genetic circuits to enable precise control of therapeutic activity. Strand is advancing a pipeline focused on oncology and autoimmune disease, with initial programs STX-001 (intratumorally delivered LNP-encapsulated self-replicating RNA expressing IL-12) showing preliminary evidence of systemic immune activation and anti-tumor activity, STX-003 (intravenously delivered, tumor-targeted) expected to enter the clinic mid-2026, and STX-005 (in vivo CAR-T program). Founded by MIT synthetic biology pioneers, Strand has raised over $250 million and is headquartered in Boston, MA.
The Principal Associate Scientist of Analytical Development & Operations will lead development of analytical methods and novel analytical techniques focusing on deep physical characterization of early/clinical-stage mRNA and LNP formulations. This role works at the interface of process and analytical development, using analytical data to build process understanding and evaluate the impact of process parameters and material attributes on product quality. Key responsibilities include analyzing data to drive screening, optimization, and scale-up efforts in mRNA and LNP process development; applying strong understanding of mRNA and LNP analytical methods to support identification and characterization of critical process parameters and critical material attributes; independently troubleshooting experimental and process challenges using systematic, data-driven approaches; partnering closely with Process Development, Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality, and other CMC functions; evaluating and onboarding innovative analytical tools; interfacing with external contract research organizations; mentoring and developing junior scientists in exploring new analytical techniques; and maintaining electronic notebook records and authoring protocols. The role reports to the Principal Scientist of Analytical Development and requires a strategic thinker with leadership presence and enthusiasm for tackling new challenges in a matrix-based environment.
Qualifications:
- B.S. or Advanced Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or other relevant scientific discipline
- 5+ years of experience in Analytical and Process Development, preferably with focus on mRNA and/or LNP technology
- Working knowledge of common mRNA/LNP analytical methods (plate-based assays, PCR, UPLC/HPLC, light scattering, capillary gel electrophoresis, etc.)
- Familiarity with advanced analytical technologies (LC-MS, in-line monitoring, automation, digital process development, advanced data analysis techniques) highly desirable
- Working experience in analytical method development
- Experience with enzymatic and chemical reactions, PCR, plasmid processing, and standard analytical techniques for biologics or nucleic acid therapies
- Ability to conduct laboratory experiments, excellent documentation review and writing skills, flexibility to work on multiple projects
- Understanding of process development and/or regulatory aspects of mRNA-(lipid) nanoparticle products a plus
- Ability to quickly adapt to change and thrive in dynamic, entrepreneurial early-stage environment
- Strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to work independently
- Independently motivated, detail-oriented, with good problem-solving ability
