Co-Op, PS Experiment, LNP Formulations

Your Impact at LILA

We are seeking an Intern to join our Chemistry team. This role will focus on assisting in the design and development of advanced microfluidic platforms for the controlled synthesis and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and other nanocarriers. The ideal candidate will have hands-on expertise in various LNP formulation techniques, downstream characterization assays, and experience with automation technologies. Your work will bridge the physical sciences and bioanalytical domains, working closely with others across the chemistry, biology, machine learning, and data science teams to help establish next-generation tools for therapeutic development and delivery.

What You'll Be Building

• Contribute to building Lila’s lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform by supporting formulation efforts.
• Will be responsible for formulating and characterizing novel LNPs using microfluidic platforms, with a focus on high throughput screening to select and optimize lead formulations.
• Routinely run downstream characterization assays for nucleic acid therapeutics (including DLS, ribogreen assay, TNS assay, etc.)
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, engineers, and data scientists to document systems, share insights, and refine best practices in autonomous flow chemistry.
• Aid in the development of drug delivery systems beyond standard LNPs, including targeted nanoparticles (antibody/ligand decoration, evaluating different linker chemistries, etc.).

What You'll Need to Succeed

• BSc or MSc candidate in Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
• Prior hands on experience with lipid nanoparticle formulations, microfluidic device development, or other drug delivery systems.
• Data analysis skills and ability to interpret results, using learnings to iterate on experimental designs.

Bonus Points For

• Experience working with high throughput screening systems and automation equipment.
• Working knowledge of bioanalytical techniques (e.g., DLS, fluorescence spectroscopy, electrophoresis, in vitro assays).