Post-doctoral Fellow in Ionisable Lipid Chemistry for Nucleic Acids Delivery
Join a multidisciplinary nanomedicine lab to design and synthesize novel ionisable lipids for advanced therapeutic delivery.
Best for:Best for chemists with expertise in organic synthesis and lipid nanoparticle formulation for therapeutic applications.
Overview
The JC STEM Lab of Nanomedicine for Advanced Therapy at the University of Hong Kong is seeking a Post-doctoral Fellow to advance research in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology. The successful candidate will focus on the design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel ionisable lipids to improve nucleic acid delivery for cancer and neurodegenerative disease treatments. This role involves close collaboration with molecular biology and in vivo research teams to translate chemical innovations into functional therapeutic platforms. Applicants are expected to manage research programmes independently while contributing to manuscript and patent development.
What you'll do
- Design, synthesise, and optimise novel ionisable lipids for LNP formulations.
- Develop scale-up protocols for lipid candidates to ensure purity and reproducibility.
- Characterise lipids using NMR, LC-MS, and HPLC analytical techniques.
- Formulate and optimise LNPs to achieve target particle size and encapsulation efficiency.
- Assess LNP stability, biocompatibility, and delivery performance via in vitro assays.
- Collaborate with molecular biology teams to translate lipid chemistries into therapeutic platforms.
- Maintain detailed experimental records for intellectual property and regulatory documentation.
- Supervise and train junior staff and postgraduate students in synthesis and characterisation methods.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
Language: Excellent command of written and spoken English.
Instruction: English
Publications: Proven track record demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications or patents.
- Proven track record in designing and synthesising novel lipid molecules.
- Expertise in multi-step organic synthesis and purification techniques.
- Proficiency in analytical characterisation methods including NMR, LC-MS, and HPLC.
- Experience in formulating LNPs with helper lipids, PEG-lipids, and cholesterol.
- Competence in assessing physicochemical properties using dynamic light scattering.
- Ability to manage research programmes independently and supervise students.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-31 · open until filled
Applications must be submitted through the University’s online career portal. Click the 'Apply' button on the job page and upload an up-to-date CV.
- CV
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