Oligonucleotide Scientist II

Job Summary

The Position
We are seeking a creative, self-motivated, collaborative Contractor/Scientist-II to join the Nucleic Acid Design and Discovery (NADD) team within ProteinSciences (PS).

Key Responsibilities

• Work in an oligonucleotide therapeutic drug discovery research lab and interface across different therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, immunology and oncology, to help build a comprehensive therapeutic discovery strategy.
• Good understanding and also troubleshooting experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, impurity profiling is a plus.
• Collaborate with other scientists to maintain common lab equipment such as oligo synthesizers, HPLC and desalting units.
• Perform literature reviews, propose, and execute nucleic acid chemistry plans, coordinate chemistry and biology data to support oligonucleotide compound progression.
• Establish methods for scaled-up synthesis of lead molecules and coordinate material delivery for preclinical studies.
• Maintain a high level of productivity in the laboratory setting to meet the timelines for in vitro and in vivo studies.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis using automated oligo synthesizers, novel nucleic acid chemistry, oligonucleotide purification and characterization using HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• A BS/MS in Organic Chemistry or related discipline.
• Pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience in research and development of RNAi therapeutics is preferred.
• A good understanding of nucleic acid therapeutic modalities, modification chemistries, sequence selection, and mechanism of action is preferred.
• Relevant experience in oligonucleotide therapeutics, large molecule drug discovery, oligonucleotide delivery or bio-conjugation is desirable.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential and will be evaluated during the interview process.
• Highly motivated and strong problem-solving, analytical, communication and organizational skills.