Associate Director/Director, LNP Formulation & Drug Product Development

About the position

The incumbent will lead the development and optimization of nChroma’s LNP formulations and collaborate with both internal research teams and external CROs/CDMOs to support multiple programs.

Responsibilities

• Leverage both internal team and external CROs to optimize and produce high quality LNPs for our leading programs.
• Provide SME support for external production with our CDMO partners.
• Lead from the bench and develop a high-performing Formulation & PD team, including initiating excellent laboratory and documentation practice.
• Provide hands-on support in the lab to train the team and run process operations.
• Provide mentorship and development opportunities for the team.
• Contribute as CMC Delivery representative for GMP production support & lead regulatory filing sections as needed.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders from payload, preclinical, manufacturing, analytical, and other internal functions to support program, department, and corporate goals.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 - 6 years in the biopharmaceutical industry with a proven track record of leading innovative nucleic acids delivery and formulation & scale up of LNP is required, including tech transfer to GMP suites.
• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Chemistry, Biophysics, Biochemistry, engineering, or related life sciences with strong scientific background.
• Experience in leading a team of direct reports and providing guidance and mentorship to junior scientists.
• Experience supporting development programs, including communicating between CMC and Program Teams.

Nice-to-haves

• Impactful leadership skills and demonstrated ability to lead a diverse team.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills, including an ability to combine attention to detail with a big picture perspective.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with experience presenting scientific research.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative, and, at times, uncertain or changing environment while remaining flexible, proactive, and resourceful.
• Adept at prioritizing and managing multiple tasks simultaneously, integrating cross-functional issues, and balancing competing priorities effectively.
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset with a desire to positively impact a new company’s evolving culture.
• Passionate, adaptable, and keen on working in the fast-paced biotech startup space to drive cutting-edge science.