Job Title: Associate Scientist, mRNA, LNP & Stem Cell Biology
Company: Lifecycle Sciences Inc.
Location: Richmond, BC (On-site)
Job Type: Full-time
The Role We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Associate Scientist to join our R&D team. This is a hands-on, wet-lab-focused role where you will be instrumental in executing our experiments. The ideal candidate brings specific, demonstrable expertise in mRNA synthesis (ideally hands-on experience with IVT), Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) formulation, and mammalian stem cell culture.
You will work directly with our lead scientists to develop cutting-edge cellular reprogramming protocols and prepare formulations for both in vitro analysis and upcoming downstream studies.
Key Responsibilities
- mRNA Synthesis & Handling: Design, synthesize, and purify mRNA using in vitro transcription (IVT) and optimize protocols for maximum stability and expression.
- LNP Formulation: Formulate, optimize, and characterize LNPs for the delivery of mRNA payloads (utilizing microfluidics, DLS, etc.).
- Cell Culture: Cultivate and maintain primary mammalian cell lines.
- Administration & Transfection: Execute in vitro cell transfections and assist with the preparation and administration of mRNA/LNP and cellular payloads.
- Analytical Assays: Perform downstream cellular and molecular analyses to validate experiments, utilizing multi-color flow cytometry, live-cell imaging, qPCR, and ELISA.
- Documentation: Maintain meticulous, GLP-compliant laboratory notebooks, draft detailed SOPs, and compile data for Health Canada regulatory briefs.
Qualifications & Skills
- Minimum of a M.Sc. in Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Cellular Biology, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated, hands-on laboratory experience with mRNA synthesis and LNP formulation and physicochemical characterization is strictly required.
- Strong proficiency in mammalian cell culture; specific experience handling primary stem cells is a massive asset.
- Familiarity with advanced lab equipment (e.g., qPCR and PCR, ELISA, microfluidics mixers, TFF Systems, DLS, Zeta-potential analyzer, HPLC, Capillary Electrophoresis, flow cytometer).
- Understanding of GLP guidelines and standard industry protocols.
- An entrepreneurial mindset: you thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, are highly adaptable, and take ownership of your wet-lab bench.
Pay: $70,000.00-$85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- Do you have experience with synthesizing mRNA?
- Do you have experience in mRNA quality control?
- Do you have experience with mRNA delivery methods?
Work Location: In person
