Nanoparticle Research Associate

Company Description

Atom Bioworks, Inc. is an early-stage biotech company transforming the rational design of targeted drug delivery through the fusion of AI-based ligand design and nucleic acid chemistry. Our unique R&D platform provides new strategies to treat or cure previously undruggable diseases by targeting the combination of multiple cell receptors associated with the disease. We are an interdisciplinary team working across computational and experimental biology and believe that our strongest asset is our people.

Job Description

Atom Bioworks is currently seeking an Associate Scientist to join our LNP Research and Development team. Working on both the formulation and in vitro validation of LNPs, the Associate Scientist will play an important role across our entire in vitro development pipeline. The successful Associate Scientist will be highly accurate and reliable in executing routine protocols and reporting data, and will also demonstrate the desire and ability to grow as an independent researcher, contributing to analysis, hypothesis generation, experimental design, and process improvement efforts under the guidance of senior scientists.

Responsibilities

• Regularly formulate lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating RNA/DNA payloads that meet specific criteria for testing across various cell lines and mouse models.

• Collaborate with the supervisor to design innovative formulation compositions and explore medium- to high-throughput workflows for preparing and performing quality control on these LNPs.

• Conduct comprehensive biophysical characterization of LNPs using Dynamic Light Scattering and fluorometric plate-based assays to evaluate properties such as size, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, lipid composition, and targeting ligand density.

• Perform mammalian cell culture and in vitro cellular assays, including determination of reporter gene expression by plate-based fluorescence and luminescence assays as well as flow cytometry and/or RT-qPCR.

• Apply independent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot challenges in formulation, equipment, and assays, leveraging relevant scientific literature.

• Maintain meticulous documentation of protocols, materials, and results in an electronic laboratory notebook.

• Maintain up-to-date records and prepare internal reports. Present findings to internal teams through presentations and detailed written reports.

• Lead laboratory operations such as equipment maintenance, inventory management, and purchasing.

Qualifications

• BS in a relevant field plus 2 years full-time experience working in a biotechnology laboratory in academia or industry.

• MS in a relevant field plus 1 year full-time experience working in a biotechnology laboratory in academia or industry.

• Prior experience in development or characterization of complex biologics (e.g., protein or nucleic acid-based drugs, cellular therapies, etc.) and/or nanotechnologies.

• Strong proficiency with laboratory skills in at least two of the following three groups:

  • Nanoparticle synthesis and characterization (microfluidic mixing, DLS, fluorometric and electrophoretic methods, etc.)

  • Ligand binding (ELISA, BLI, SPR, immunoprecipitation, cell-based binding assays, etc.)

  • Cell culture (mammalian cell lines, primary cell lines, brightfield microscopy, flow cytometry, plate-based cellular assays using luciferase and/or fluorescent protein reporters, etc.)

• Strong attention to detail, ability to multi-task and complete deliverables within timelines.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Adaptability and enthusiasm for new challenges and a passion for learning in a fast-paced startup setting.

• Ability to work independently while effectively interacting and collaborating in a team environment.

• Preferred: Experience with bioprocess engineering principles, process modeling, and Design of Experiment (DoE) statistical tools.

• Preferred: Experience in mouse in vivo studies including biodistribution, tail-vein injection, etc.

Additional Information

What we offer

• A high-growth opportunity with meaningful impact.
• Great learning opportunity to build ML skills for solving real world problems.
• Competitive compensation package.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy.
• Commitment to physical and mental well-being.