Advisor - RNA Chemistry

About the role

The Lilly Genetic Medicine group is at the forefront of oligonucleotide medicinal chemistry research and synthetic chemistry innovation, with the goal of establishing Lilly as a leader in genetic medicine. Our group is engaged in a broad range of scientific efforts spanning the full arc of oligonucleotide drug discovery: from the design and synthesis of siRNA and antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) molecules on active drug discovery projects, to fundamental platform science aimed at making better medicines. This includes investigating novel chemical modifications to enhance the potency, selectivity, and durability of siRNA molecules, as well as pioneering new delivery strategies using a variety of ligands to direct oligonucleotide medicines to specific tissues and cell types. We work in close collaboration with in vitro and in vivo biology, ADME and toxicology scientists to translate chemical innovation into meaningful therapeutic impact.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize oligonucleotides and novel nucleotide analogs for incorporation into siRNA and ASO platforms to support portfolio drug discovery efforts
• Independently identify critical scientific questions and develop well-reasoned chemistry strategies for enhancing the potency, safety, and durability of oligonucleotide drug molecules
• Collaborate with in vitro and in vivo biologists to evaluate new biological targets of interest, integrating cross-functional information to support data-driven decisions
• Design and implement chemistry strategies for delivery of oligonucleotide medicines to tissues and cell types of interest, anticipating and managing risk to minimize impact on project timelines
• Develop and test new ideas and apply innovative solutions that significantly advance scientific and/or project understanding across multiple drug modalities, including oligonucleotides, antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates, and peptide-oligonucleotide conjugates
• Build a diverse cross-functional and external network to understand how different fields contribute to oligonucleotide research and development
• Focus on defining clear scientific hypotheses, goals, critical success factors, and timelines in support of advancing the portfolio
• Mentor and develop junior scientists, providing constructive feedback and encouraging a culture of excellence and knowledge sharing
• Bring authentic scientific perspective and create a safe environment for colleagues to share ideas and contribute
• Represent genetic medicine project teams in presentations to departmental and cross-functional senior leadership teams

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in organic chemistry, or a related field with 0–5+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry or relevant postdoctoral training

Skills

• Strong proficiency in synthetic organic chemistry, including design and execution of multistep synthetic routes to small molecule targets
• Expertise in characterization of small molecules using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and HPLC
• Experience with oligonucleotide synthesis using automated synthesizers (e.g., Mermade or K&A platforms) and downstream oligonucleotide processing is desirable but not required
• Experience with conjugation of biomolecules is desirable but not required
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively, try new ideas, and apply findings in a fast-paced discovery environment
• Familiarity with ChemDraw, electronic notebook software, and Microsoft Office

Benefits

• Travel: 0–10%
• Location: On-site, Indianapolis, IN – Lilly Corporate Center (LCC)

Pay

• $126,000 - $204,600

Schedule

• Full-time