Job Description

Non-viral transfection agents are essential components in RNA-based therapeutics and diagnostics. Consider for example that the recently developed vaccines for preventing COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 rely on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations that stabilize mRNA and promote its desired immune response. While LNPs have been largely successful in the control of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still many issues to improve on including off-target effects, stability, and toxicity. Conjugated oligoelectrolytes (COE) are defined by a linear hydrophobic conjugated backbone with polar ionic pendants at both terminals. The modular design of COEs allows for rapid tuning of molecular units to access a large continuum of properties. They were first synthesized in Prof. Bazan\'s group as two-photo absorption chromophores and later extended to several biological applications such as antimicrobial agents and extracellular vesicle dyes.

In this project, we are interested in developing novel LNP formulations incorporating COEs with a view toward theranostic applications in vaccine development. Routine assays will be conducted on the LNP, including particle characterizations (DLS, cryo-TEM, and encapsulation efficiency), transfection, cellular uptake, and confocal imaging of intracellular fates. The performance of the novel LNP formulations will be routinely compared to commercial agents. The photophysical characterizations for these COE-LNP formulations will also be investigated via different spectroscopy-based techniques such as UV-Vis absorbance and fluorescence.

This project will be closely mentored by a postdoctoral research fellow and principal investigator, Prof Bazan.

Qualifications

• Bachelor\'s degree in chemistry or related discipline.
• Independent and motivated individual with good problem-solving skills.
• With practical experience and/or knowledge of

• Biological chemistry, cell biology, or biochemistry.
• Biomaterials/materials science.
• Characterization techniques including absorbance/fluorescence measurements, flow cytometry, or confocal microscopy.
• Mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Knowledge of lipid nanoparticles and drug/gene delivery is highly sought after.
• MS office.

More Information
Location: Kent Ridge Campus
Organization: Science
Department : Chemistry
Job requisition ID : 22495

Times Higher Education