Co-op, mRNA Process Development

Company Overview:

Strand Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering programmable mRNA therapeutics to unlock the full potential of genetic medicines. Strand is applying its proprietary Signal Stack platform, which integrates EverScript circular RNA, AmpliScript self-replicating RNA, SignalPath targeted delivery, and logic-driven SignalLock genetic circuits to enable precise control of therapeutic activity across tissues and cell types and overcome foundational limitations in targeting, durability, and safety.

Strand is advancing a pipeline with an initial focus on oncology and autoimmune disease. Its initial program, STX-001, an intratumorally delivered LNP-encapsulated self-replicating RNA expressing IL-12, has demonstrated preliminary evidence of systemic immune activation and anti-tumor activity in patients with advanced solid tumors who have progressed on prior therapies. Building on this early clinical validation, intravenously delivered STX-003 is designed for tumor-targeted expression and avoidance of off-target expression. STX-003, which is expected to enter the clinic in mid-2026, has the potential to be a major step forward for the fields of genetic medicine and oncology. Strand is also advancing STX-005, an in vivo CAR-T program designed to enable controlled, durable expression and repeat dosing. Founded by MIT synthetic biology pioneers, Strand has raised over $250 million and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

Become the next standout single strand!

Job Summary:

Strand is looking for people who have the enthusiasm and motivation to be a highly contributing member of a small but extremely productive team. This opportunity will offer the employee the ability to work in a matrix-based environment and be a part of the future strategy of the company.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to join as Co-op of the mRNA Process Development team at Strand Therapeutics to support the development, optimization, and scale-up of manufacturing processes for high-quality mRNA therapeutics. This role will provide hands-on experience with mRNA production, purification, analytical characterization, and process improvement activities in a collaborative and fast-paced biotechnology environment.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Execute experiments related to the advancement of Strands mRNA manufacturing and/or process optimization platforms.
• Carry out the production of IVT synthesized mRNA.
• Support screening, optimization, and scale-up efforts for enzymatic reactions, chromatographic separations and filtration processes - including ultrafiltration, diafiltration, and sterile filtration.
• Perform analytical assays and characterization studies to evaluate mRNA quality and process performance.
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to technical presentations, reports, and team discussions.
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records in electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Work effectively to support the group's development activities in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Molecular Medicine, Genetics or related field. Experience in the biotechnology space is a plus.
• Experience with nucleic acid workflows, chromatography, filtration processes, or biological analytic techniques is preferred, but not required
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures, make careful observations, maintain clear and complete records of lab work.‪
• Strong collaboration and inter-personal skills. Ability to present scientific context, experimental set up, data interpretation, and big-picture conclusions to a diverse audience.

Job Type: Co-op

Hourly Rate: $25 - $28 / hour