Epitome Therapeutics is an early-stage biotechnology company based in Vienna, focused on developing a next-generation epigenome editing platform to transform the way we understand and treat disease. We are a Spin-Off of Europe’s top life science institution EMBL (Hackett group) that brings together bold ideas, cutting-edge tools, and a collaborative team spirit.

We are seeking a diligent and versatile mRNA Drug Delivery - Principal Scientist (full time) to join our founding R&D team. The successful candidate will lead efforts to engineer optimised RNAs for CRISPR systems, optimise lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations, and experimentally test LNPs to achieve potent delivery. This is a hands-on and interdisciplinary lab-based role that would suit a motivated early career scientist looking for a fast-paced startup environment to drive discovery from concept through to clinical validation.

Principal Scientist RNA Drug Delivery (f/m/x)

Vienna, Austria

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Design and optimise mRNA molecules, including sequence characteristics, modified nucleotide incorporation, and structural optimization to improve stability, translation, and editing efficiency.
• Screen and characterise the impact of compositional parameters of LNP on the packaging and delivery of RNA payloads in vitro and in vivo.
• Lead the experimental programme for testing delivery of CRISPR-based mRNA therapeutics in cell-based assays.
• Supervise and mentor a small team of laboratory technicians to ensure high-quality experimental execution, data generation and documentation.
• Analyse, interpret, and present experimental results to progress towards (pre-)clinical goals.
• Collaborate with scientists and leadership to design and refine strategies and contribute to shaping the scientific vision of a young company with global ambitions.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related field.
• Relevant experience in nucleic acid chemistry, RNA biology, and / or LNP formulation (industry or postdoctoral).
• Experience of cell-based assays and a core molecular biology skillset.
• Problem-solving and organisational skills, with an interest to grow into a role with management responsibility.
• Demonstrated expertise in the design principles of mRNA / gRNA and LNP.
• A flexible, entrepreneurial spirit - comfortable moving fast and adapting as we grow.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving and organizational skills, with prior experience supervising junior scientists or technicians.

WHY JOIN US

• Be part of an early-stage biotech where your work directly shapes the future of the company.
• Work in Vienna, a global hub for life sciences and one of the world’s most liveable cities.
• Collaborate with a passionate, multidisciplinary team tackling some of the most exciting frontiers in CRISPR applications.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
  

If you’re excited about rewriting the rules of gene regulation and want to help build something transformative, we’d love to hear from you.

The yearly salary for the position is EUR 75.737,20 gross based on full-time (40 hours per week). Depending on relevant job experience and qualifications the remuneration can be negotiated.

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

We are looking forward to receiving your application (English CV & cover letter incl. salary expectations) over the application-dashboard. Our responsible consultant will contact you immediately after receipt.
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