Associate Director/Director, LNP Discovery

Company Overview

Strand Therapeutics is an early-stage biotechnology company utilizing synthetic biology to genetically program mRNA to deliver truly revolutionary immunotherapies.

Building on the idea of creating smart therapies based on Boolean logic circuits, Strand was started by biological engineers working together at MIT who were seeking to apply the concept of the emerging field of mRNA therapeutics. This collaboration led them to build their own mRNA “programming language,” creating the world’s first platform for mRNA smart therapies.

The founders and scientific advisors of Strand Therapeutics are made up of well-known and highly regarded individuals in both academia and the biotech industry. Our corporate headquarters is located in the Fenway district of Boston, Massachusetts with an additional site based in Watertown, Massachusetts.

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking to build a team that understands the value of working at a start-up. Joining the company now means having vast opportunities to learn and grow including having the exposure to all aspects of building a company. We are looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work closely with the founding team, as well as to form close partnerships with team members during the development and formation of the company.

We are looking for a highly motivated and innovative candidate for the role of Associate Director/Director of LNP Discovery. The expectation is that the candidate will have extensive experience in the world of LNP discovery research particularly focused on the successful delivery of nucleic acid payloads. Reporting to the Sr Vice President of Discovery & Translational Development, the right candidate will be a strategic thinker that brings a leadership presence and enthusiasm for Strand along with a deep scientific knowledge. This individual will be managing a group of existing scientific staff and will help to roadmap the expansion of the growing department. This individual will be critical in liaising with multiple departments in Research (mRNA programming, Translational Biology, Translational Development, Data Science) along with CMC (Process Development, Analytical Development).

Primary Responsibilities:

• Build/lead a team of scientists and engineers responsible for developing novel LNP compositions from concept through to development candidate nomination.
• Drive fundamental improvement as it relates to LNP science resulting in improved delivery to various organs beyond liver.
• Responsible for managing interactions internally and externally to align efforts with company priorities and timelines.

Qualifications:

• M.S. or Ph.D. with a focus in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or other relevant scientific discipline with prior experience on LNP formulation and in vivo delivery of nucleic acid-based payloads.
• 8-10+ years of industry experience focused on LNP discovery research pertaining to nucleic acid drug delivery required. Previous IND experience is desired but not needed.
• Extensive experience with production and analytical characterization of mRNA LNPs (ex. DLS measurement, RNA encapsulation, cell-based assays, absorption and fluorescence spectrometry, chromatographic separations, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, NMR spectroscopy, LC-MS, etc.).
• Familiarity with scale-up/process development, and/or regulatory aspects of mRNA LNP products highly preferred as this role will entail close working relationship with LNP Process Development and Manufacturing groups.
• Excellent knowledge of the scientific literature in the field of mRNA delivery.
• Demonstrated experience building, managing, and developing a team required.
• Highly analytical, decisive, and goal-oriented while maintaining the highest scientific and ethical standards.
• Ability to quickly adapt to change and thrive in a dynamic and entrepreneurial early-stage environment.
• A strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work independently and with partners in research and process development.

Strand offers a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, team-focused work environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, vacation, 401k, and commuter) and work/ life integration. Being part of the Strand team allows you to become part of a small team that supports professional development while working together to meet the company goals.

Strand Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable law. Strand does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: Commensurate with role and experience