Scientist I/II – Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation & Process Development

Scientist I/II – Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation & Process Development

Job Title: Lead Formulation Chemist

Location: Irvine, CA (Onsite)

Company: Cellese Inc.

Reports to: Lead Scientist

*Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.*

Company Overview:

Cellese Inc. is a leader in regenerative science and advanced skincare, developing cutting-edge cosmeceuticals that combine luxury with scientific rigor. Our R&D team is pioneering lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and exosome-based technologies to deliver next-generation skincare and regenerative solutions. Join our dynamic, collaborative, and fast-paced environment where innovation directly translates into product development and clinical impact.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a Scientist (level I or II, depending on experience) to design, optimize, and scale lipid nanoparticle formulations for skincare and regenerative applications. This hands-on role sits at the interface of formulation science, analytical testing, and process engineering. The successful candidate will help drive the development of novel delivery platforms—lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, and hybrid exosome systems—supporting both internal R&D and external collaborations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research, develop, and optimize lipid nanoparticle formulations for skincare and regenerative ingredient delivery.
• Design and execute experiments using Quality by Design (QbD) and Design of Experiments (DoE) approaches to establish critical process parameters (CPPs).
• Manufacture nanoparticles using microfluidic mixers and downstream purification (TFF) methods.
• Conduct analytical characterization (NTA, zeta potential, HPLC/UPLC, Ribogreen, stability testing) to define and monitor critical quality attributes (CQAs).
• Support pilot-scale production, lyophilization, and fill/finish development.
• Partner with biology teams to test formulations in vitro and leverage data for iterative improvement.
• Prepare SOPs, batch records, development reports, and technology transfer packages for cross-functional use.
• Present findings internally and externally, contributing to both tactical development and strategic innovation discussions.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biology, or related field with 2+ years relevant experience; OR M.S. with 4+ years; OR B.S. with 6+ years.
• Hands-on expertise in lipid nanoparticle formulation and process development.
• Strong knowledge of microfluidic nanoparticle assembly, lipid self-assembly, and TFF purification.
• Practical experience with analytical methods (NTA, HPLC/UPLC, SEC, IEX, IP-RP, fluorescence assays).
• Familiarity with in-process controls, stability testing, and data/statistical analysis.
• Ability to independently design, troubleshoot, and document experiments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of exosome or hybrid EV–LNP technologies.
• Background in skin or hair biology models.
• Understanding of cGMP expectations and regulatory considerations for nanoparticle-based products.
• Familiarity with statistical software for DoE and process optimization.

Work Environments:

• Newly renovated lab space, equipped for advanced nanoparticle formulation and testing.
• Collaborative, small-team culture that values creativity, innovation, and cross-functional impact.
• Exposure to chemicals and laboratory equipment with standard lab physical requirements (standing, pipetting, lifting up to 25 lbs, etc.).

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary: $95,000–$120,000 annually (commensurate with experience).

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–5:00 pm (onsite)

Benefits: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance

Retirement: 401(k) with company match

Time Off: 2 weeks PTO plus 12 holidays

Culture & Perks: Quarterly team events, catered lunches, casual culture, and complimentary company skincare products.

Why Join Us:

At Cellese, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the next generation of scientifically advanced skincare. This is a rare opportunity to lead hands-on formulation innovation within a company at the forefront of regenerative aesthetics—where your expertise will directly translate into products used by leading dermatologists and aesthetic professionals worldwide.