Your Impact at LILA

Lila is seeking a co-op to help build the automated non-viral delivery platform. The role focuses on improving an automated system for production and characterization of targeted lipid nanoparticles (tLNP).

Day-to-day work involves producing tLNPs to support ongoing experiments, developing new conjugation and purification methods for tLNPs, and applying those methods on the automated system.

The co-op works alongside chemists, biologists, automation engineers, and data scientists, with hands-on time across both bench science and automated lab systems.

What You'll Be Building

• Formulate and characterize targeted LNPs on an automated microfluidic workcell
• Run high-throughput screens of ionizable lipids and targeting ligands
• Execute downstream characterization assays such as DLS, RiboGreen, and TNS
• Onboard new workflows and experiment types onto the workcell
• Test and document changes that increase screening throughput
• Record methods, results, and observations in the ELN for reuse across teams

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Pursuing a BSc or MSc in chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, biology, or a related field
• Hands-on wet-lab experience and comfort following detailed SOPs
• Data analysis skills, with the ability to interpret results and iterate on experimental design
• Clear written and verbal communication, including ELN documentation
• Available for the full January co-op term, onsite at Alewife

Bonus Points For

• Experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation, microfluidics, or other drug delivery systems
• Familiarity with automated systems or high-throughput screening platforms
• Familiarity with protein characterization methods
• Working knowledge of bioanalytical techniques such as fluorescence spectroscopy and electrophoresis