Kernal Bio is a venture-backed therapeutics company engineering cells inside the body using AI-designed, selective mRNA and targeted LNP technology. By developing in vivo CAR-T therapies, Kernal Bio is advancing precision treatments for autoimmune diseases and blood cancers. The company was founded by experts from MIT, Harvard, Merck, and BMS, and its leadership team brings a track record of three FDA-approved therapies and over 120 patents. With support from leading investors, including Hummingbird Ventures, Amgen Ventures, Y Combinator, and HBM. Kernal Bio is transforming the future of cell therapy design and delivery.

Job Summary:

Kernal Bio is seeking a highly motivated Senior Associate Scientist to support the development of its targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNP) platform. This role is ideal for an experienced experimental scientist who enjoys hands-on laboratory work and thrives in a fast-paced biotech environment. The Senior Associate Scientist will contribute to the development, optimization, and characterization of LNP formulations and manufacturing processes, working closely with senior scientists and cross-functional partners in CMC and biology.

This position emphasizes execution, data generation, and technical rigor, with opportunities to grow scientific independence and take increasing ownership of projects over time.

Responsibilities:

• Synthesize and characterize LNP's for preclinical studies
• Analyze LNP critical quality attributes using techniques such as Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), RiboGreen assays, HPLC, and related analytical methods.
• Support the development of antibody-LNP conjugation workflows and processes.
• Perform formulation screening studies, including buffer and excipient optimization to improve LNP stability and performance.
• Support the execution of flow cytometry-based assays for LNP screening and optimization.
• Assist with the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of LNP/mRNA manufacturing processes at bench and pilot scales.
• Assist in the development, qualification, and execution of analytical and functional assays to assess key LNP attributes.
• Analyze experimental data, maintain detailed records in ELNs, and prepare summaries and presentations for internal team discussions.
• Support technology transfer activities to internal CMC teams and external partners, as needed.
• Maintain laboratory organization, supplies, and reagent inventories for the LNP Formulation team.
• Contribute to technical discussions and documentation related to platform development and intellectual property.

Requirements:

• BS/MS in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutics, Chemistry or related field along with 3-5 years of industry experience working with lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, or similar.
• Hands-on experience manufacturing LNPs using Microfluidics, T-mixer, or other inline mixers.
• Experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) and sterile filtration.
• Familiarity with related LNP/mRNA analytical techniques (e.g. plate-based fluorescence assays, HPLC, LC/MS).
• Experience supporting in vivo LNP studies; direct execution experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with ELN and GraphPad Prism.
• Nice To Have: Exposure to tech transfer activities or GMP manufacturing environments.
• Attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and complete deliverables within timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Core Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality experimental execution.
• Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and expand technical capabilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team while progressively developing independence.

Benefits:

• Competitive 401(k)
• Highly competitive healthcare coverage (PPO/HMO)
• Free parking, a monthly subway pass, or a subsidized commuter rail pass
• Free Bluebike Membership
• Gym Membership Support
• Flexible Spending Account
• Paid parental leave, family caregiver leave, and medical leave
• Paid life insurance coverage
• On-site cafeteria
• Competitive vacation and sick days per year

Kernal is dedicated towards providing a diverse work environment and is committed to equal employment opportunity for all its employees and qualified applicants. We do not discriminate in employment practices for reasons of race, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, religion, disability, or any other legally protected status. Kernal will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.