Scientist/Sr. Scientist, Oligo Chemistry
$115,000–$175,000 year
On-siteWaltham, Massachusetts, United States
Job Summary
Design and optimize chemically modified oligonucleotides, including siRNAs, ASOs, and PMOs, while developing novel nucleoside analogs and architectures to improve potency, stability, and tissue delivery. Generate structure-activity relationships to guide lead optimization and design libraries in collaboration with bioinformatics and biology teams for screening campaigns. Develop synthetic routes for building blocks and oversee synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization using RP-HPLC, LC-MS, and CE. Manage external CROs through experimental design, technical oversight, and timeline management to ensure project execution. Partner with cross-functional teams to evaluate emerging technologies and maintain technical documentation for multidisciplinary review.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related discipline with 0-6 years of relevant industry experience
- M.S. with 2-8 years of industry experience in oligonucleotide therapeutic development
- Extensive hands-on experience in organic synthesis and nucleoside chemistry
- Demonstrated expertise in therapeutic oligonucleotide chemistry, including siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, splice-switching oligonucleotides, PMOs, or related modalities
- Possess a deep understanding of contemporary oligonucleotide modification patterns, including 2'-O-methyl, 2'-fluoro, LNA, cEt, constrained analogs, phosphorothioate stereochemistry, phosphodiester incorporation, glycol nucleic acids, morpholino chemistry, and other emerging chemistries
- Direct experience with oligonucleotide synthesis platforms and purification workflows, including automated solid-phase synthesis and preparative HPLC
- Strong analytical expertise with LC-MS, RP-HPLC, ion exchange chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, MALDI-TOF, and related characterization techniques
- Experience designing and interpreting medicinal chemistry SAR campaigns for oligonucleotide therapeutics
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with oligonucleotide delivery technologies, including GalNAc conjugates, lipid conjugates, peptide conjugates, antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates, nanoparticles, or other targeted delivery systems
- Experience supporting lead optimization and candidate selection within a drug discovery environment
Hiring someone like this?
Get your role in front of qualified candidates on Sorce.