Principal Associate Scientist, Analytical Development & Operations

Company Overview:

Strand Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering programmable mRNA therapeutics to unlock the full potential of genetic medicines. Strand is applying its proprietary Signal Stack platform, which integrates EverScript circular RNA, AmpliScript self-replicating RNA, SignalPath targeted delivery, and logic-driven SignalLock genetic circuits to enable precise control of therapeutic activity across tissues and cell types and overcome foundational limitations in targeting, durability, and safety.

Strand is advancing a pipeline with an initial focus on oncology and autoimmune disease. Its initial program, STX-001, an intratumorally delivered LNP-encapsulated self-replicating RNA expressing IL-12, has demonstrated preliminary evidence of systemic immune activation and anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced solid tumors who have progressed on prior therapies. Building on this early clinical validation, intravenously delivered STX-003 is designed for tumor-targeted expression and avoidance of off-target expression. STX-003, which is expected to enter the clinic in mid-2026, has the potential to be a major step forward for the fields of genetic medicine and oncology. Strand is also advancing STX-005, an in vivo CAR-T program designed to enable controlled, durable expression and repeat dosing. Founded by MIT synthetic biology pioneers, Strand has raised over $250 million and is headquartered in Boston, MA. 

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small but extremely productive team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work in a matrix-based environment and be a part of the future strategy of the company.

We are looking for a highly motivated and innovative candidate for the role of Principal Associate Scientist of Analytical Development & Operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific foundation and experience with mRNA/Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) technologies, process development or characterization, and/or analytical development. This individual will work 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. Reporting to the Principal Scientist of Analytical Development, the right candidate will be a strategic thinker that brings a leadership presence and enthusiasm for Strand along with a desire to conquer new challenges.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Leads development of analytical methods or novel analytical techniques focusing on deep physical characterization of early/clinical-stage mRNA and LNP formulations.
• Analyzes data and draws conclusions which drive screening, optimization, and scale-up efforts in mRNA and LNP Process Development.
• Apply a strong understanding of mRNA and LNP analytical methods to support identification and characterization of critical process parameters and critical material attributes
• Independently troubleshoot experimental and process challenges using a systematic, data-driven approach.
• Partner closely with Process Development, Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality, and other CMC functions to support process development and characterization activities.
• Evaluates and onboards innovative analytical tools to further RNA/LNP understanding.
• Interfaces with external contract research organizations to ensure compliance with internal timeline and quality requirements.
• Mentors and develops junior scientists in exploring new analytical techniques to further characterize mRNA/LNP therapeutics.
• Maintains electronic notebook records and authors protocols.

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 a focus on mRNA and/or LNP technology.
• Working knowledge of common mRNA/LNP analytical methods (Plate-based assays, PCR, UPLC/HPLC, light scattering, and/or capillary gel electrophoresis, etc.)
• Familiarity with advanced analytical technologies, LC-MS, in-line monitoring, automation, digital process development, and/or advanced data analysis techniques is 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.
• This position requires conducting laboratory experiments, excellent documentation review and writing skills, and the flexibility to work on multiple projects as needed.
• Understanding of process development, and/or regulatory aspects of mRNA-(lipid) nanoparticle products would be a plus.
• 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.
• Independently motivated, detail oriented and good problem-solving ability.

Strand offers a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, team-focused small company environment. We also offer a top-notch benefits package (health, dental, life, open PTO, onsite lunch catering, commuter support and more) and work/life flexibility and 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 Strand’s 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: $105,000 - $114,000 annually plus bonus and equity incentives