Staff Scientist
Apply Job ID 37354 Date posted 03/13/2026Job Family:
Scientist (Digital)
Travel Required:
Clearance Required:
What You Will Do:
We are currently searching for a Staff Scientist to develop lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as tissue-specific gene-delivery tools to treat various diseases, including sickle cell disease. The selected candidate will work as a team performing in vivo gene therapy research which will include optimization of lipid nanoparticle efficient delivery, conjugation of chemical reactions to the target motif, designing gene therapy strategies, and conducting animal studies for in vivo gene delivery.This is a full-time, on-site opportunity in Bethesda, MD.
Conduct and oversee research projects to develop tissue-targeted LNPs for therapeutic gene delivery, allowing for a single-injection cure of genetic diseases, named as in vivo gene therapy.
Optimize LNPs to efficiently encapsulate nucleic acids to LNPs and express the transgene in target cells.
Design RNA-encapsulated LNPs to de-target the liver for gene delivery.
Establish and analyze a chemical reaction to efficiently conjugate a target ligand to lipids.
Formulate tissue-targeted LNPs with high reproducibility and establish quality control of the LNP formulation.
Formulate, purify, and concentrate tissue-targeted LNPs at a large scale, allowing for systemic injection to animals.
Inject tissue-targeted LNPs into animals and analyze the biodistribution of in vivo gene delivery.
Perform troubleshooting with minimal supervision when operational challenges and problems exist.
Manage laboratory inventory and equipment.
Write a manuscript for publication and make a presentation in meetings with minimal supervision.
Provide scientific and technical expertise to post-docs, technicians, and students. Provide advice and guidance in their day-to-day activities.
Assess and collaborate on gene delivery research with other laboratories.
Prepare a variety of documents in laboratory activities.
What You Will Need:
Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent.
Minimum FIVE (5) years of research experience in bioengineering, chemistry, and gene therapy.
Demonstrated professional experience and knowledge in the formulation of and gene delivery with LNPs.
Experience in collaboration for in vivo gene therapy research with other laboratories.
Previous experience mentoring other lab members such as post-docs and students.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD Public Trust. Candidates must receive approved adjudication of their Public Trust prior to onboarding with Guidehouse. Candidates with an active Public Trust or existing suitability are preferred.
What Would Be Nice To Have:
Contribute in the development of tissue-specific LNPs
Knowledge of general lab management activities, including equipment maintenance and inventory stock.
Effectively work in a collaborative, team-based environment
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
401(k) Retirement Plan
Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Care.com annual membership
Employee Assistance Program
Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer–Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
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