Associate Oligonucleotide Chemist

About the role

In the RNA Therapeutics team, we are building innovative expertise in major oligonucleotide-based therapeutics and delivery approaches, with an emphasis on innovative approaches with potential for breakthrough efficacy. Our agile and diverse team strives to operate as an autonomous 'biotech-like' company within the walls of Lilly.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize, purify, and analyze modified oligonucleotides, conjugates, and small molecules that efficiently advance project goals
• Champion an effective and proactive safety culture
• Independently troubleshoot synthetic challenges and drive continuous improvement of laboratory workflows
• Maintain high laboratory productivity including the operation and maintenance of an oligonucleotide synthesizer and/or other scientific equipment
• Collaborate with chemists and scientists across fields to deliver on shared project goals through focused experiment execution
• Interpret and communicate structure-activity relationships and generate new oligonucleotide-based designs
• Search relevant chemical and scientific literature and implement new strategies and techniques accordingly
• Accurately document experimental procedures and communicate results via presentations and written reports

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Chemistry or a related field with at least 1-2 years of experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry
• Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis

Additional Skills/Preferences

• Experience in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, including operation and troubleshooting of automated solid-phase synthesizers and optimization of synthetic protocols
• Experience in small molecule organic synthesis including design of synthetic strategies, reaction optimization, work-up/purification techniques, and characterization (NMR, MS, etc.)
• Experience in the optimization of purification protocols for oligonucleotides
• Knowledge or experience in the areas of bioconjugation chemistry as applied to peptides or oligonucleotides
• Experience with analytical and physicochemical characterization of novel biomaterials (e.g., mass spectrometry, separation techniques and other biophysical/biochemical techniques)
• Excellent record keeping and communication skills
• Confident, execution-focused, and team-oriented with a desire to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment