Scientist, Biologics Formulation

Responsibilities

• Execute protein formulation experiments for liquid and solid dosage forms, including excipient screening, pH optimization, and stability assessment
• Prepare and characterize high concentration protein formulations and evaluate stability under various conditions
• Perform routine analytical characterization using techniques such as DLS, DSF, CE, and spectroscopy
• Develop, optimize, and validate automated liquid handling protocols for high-throughput formulation screening
• Program and maintain automated equipment workflows and troubleshoot technical issues
• Maintain comprehensive electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) documentation with rigorous data integrity standards
• Organize, analyze, and visualize large datasets from high-throughput experiments

Requirements

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomaterials, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline
• Hands-on experience with protein formulation and characterization techniques
• Strong foundation in protein chemistry and physical biochemistry principles
• Proficiency with data analysis tools such as Excel, GraphPad Prism, Python, or R
• Experience with electronic lab notebooks and structured data management
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Industry experience in biopharmaceutical formulation development
• Experience with liquid handling automation platforms (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton, Beckman)
• Familiarity with protein crystallization techniques
• Knowledge of lyophilization, spray drying, or other solid-state processing methods
• Experience in a startup or fast-paced R&D environment

Benefits

• Equity in a fully funded space startup
• 401(k) matching
• Unlimited PTO
• Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
• On-site lunch and snacks, with dinners provided twice a week
• Maternity and paternity leave

About the Company

Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind by creating the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth.