LNP Formulation Scientist (Senior Research Assistant)

• BASE Facility, within the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN).
• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position through August 2027.
• Base salary will be in the range $97,269 to $104,349 + 17% super (HEW Level 6).
• Based at the Translational Research Institute in Woolloongabba.

Join BASE Facility, a visionary mRNA manufacturing and research facility within UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, and help advance the next generation of mRNA medicines.

We're looking for a motivated Research Assistant to help develop lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for mRNA medicines. In this role, you'll help produce and quality-check LNP formulations during mRNA manufacturing, and you’ll research and develop new LNPs and better ways to deliver them to targeted cells or tissues.

Working with our collaborative team of advanced scientists, your work will strengthen manufacturing capability, support commercialisation and contribute to the production of high quality mRNA LNP products at our state-of-the-art manufacture facility.

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Produce high-quality mRNA-LNP formulations, including purification, buffer exchange and preparation, and perform analytical testing to characterise critical quality attributes.

• Develop, validate and optimise LNP formulations, targeted delivery methods, analytical techniques and manufacturing processes to improve quality and performance.

• Coordinate with Production Team members, troubleshoot processes and laboratory equipment, and implement practical solutions that support reliable and efficient end-to-end manufacturing.

• Maintain accurate manufacturing and experimental records, prepare and follow Standard Operating Procedures, and help ensure laboratory facilities and instrumentation remain safe, compliant and ready for use.

• Completion of a relevant degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences or a related discipline, with relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Technical skills and practical experience in molecular biology techniques, including PCR, in vitro transcription, LNP formulation and purification.

• Demonstrated knowledge of lipid-based drug delivery systems, including formulation principles, lipid composition and the critical quality attributes that influence product performance.

• Experience in the development, optimisation, manufacture and analytical characterisation of LNP formulations is highly regarded.

• Ability to interpret analytical data and contribute to process optimisation, troubleshooting, validation and continuous improvement.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team while independently completing routine laboratory procedures.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to maintain comprehensive records and contribute to reports, presentations and scientific documentation.

• A well-organised, methodical and self-motivated approach, with strong attention to detail and a commitment to safe, reliable laboratory practice.

• Previous experience in mRNA manufacturing and/or lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation in an academic, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical setting

The BASE Facility is a leader in mRNA manufacturing and research at the AIBN, the University of Queensland. This includes research laboratories developing new mRNA and LNP technologies, and a state-of-the-art NCRIS production facility located at the Translational Research Institute (TRI). We offer end-to-end services, including the design, manufacture, and LNP formulation of mRNA. We have experience making hundreds of mRNA vaccines and therapies. Our mission is to enable and support research across Australia, by providing high-quality mRNA for translational use in research and development of new mRNA medicines

As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available.

Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on-campus childcare, affordable parking and salary packaging.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Sneha Lakshman Das at *************@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at ******@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number below in the subject line.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia, qualifications, mandatory immunisations. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criterion but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing ******@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close 13 September 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-67704).

Please note applications will be reviewed as received. Candidates may be contacted for interview prior to the job closing date. We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. The University of Queensland reserves the right to close this application process early