Contract, Discovery Chemistry, Research Associate

Location: Bedford, MA

About the role

We are seeking a talented, motivated, and experienced scientist to join our client’s dynamic and fast-paced Discovery Chemistry team. The successful candidate will support oligonucleotide platform development, including PMO and siRNA technologies, and contribute to discovery research focused on improving oligonucleotide delivery. This individual will also assist in managing external collaborations and CRO activities as needed. The role will work cross-functionally with Discovery Biology, Translational Sciences, Research Operations, Business Development, and Legal teams to help advance innovative RNA therapeutic programs.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory Operations
  • Perform routine laboratory functions and maintain, calibrate, and set up laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment that meets high scientific and operational standards.
• Synthesis & Experimental Execution
  • Perform synthesis of chemically modified oligonucleotides and peptides using automated instruments.
  • Conduct multi-step small molecule synthesis to generate ligands for downstream bioconjugation projects.
  • Design and execute synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel oligonucleotide conjugates in collaboration with senior scientists.
  • Develop efficient and scalable synthetic methods and routes.
  • Apply advanced delivery technologies to support in vivo proof-of-concept studies.
• Data Management & Documentation
  • Maintain accurate experimental records and reagent inventories using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
  • Ensure data is documented, organized, and updated regularly according to established standards.
• Collaboration & Project Support
  • Contribute as a member of a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Assist in project strategy development, data analysis, and communication of complex scientific findings.
  • Support interactions with external collaborators and contract research organizations (CROs) as needed.

Requirements

• Education
  • B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience
  • 1-3 years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably within an industrial or biotechnology environment.
  • Experience in organic chemistry and multi-step organic synthesis.
  • Experience using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) for data documentation and management.
• Knowledge & Skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • High level of scientific integrity, motivation, and attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
  • Commitment to maintaining high laboratory and scientific standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with manual and automated solid-phase synthesis systems for peptides and nucleic acids.
• Experience with oligonucleotide synthesizers (e.g., MerMade, AKTA) and peptide synthesizers (e.g., Liberty Blue, Aaptec).
• Experience with purification and analytical characterization techniques for peptides and/or oligonucleotides, including:
  • Reverse Phase Chromatography
  • Ion Exchange Chromatography
  • HPLC/UPLC
  • ESI-MS

Schedule

100% Onsite (Monday-Friday)

Benefits

• Health coverage
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401k benefits