Oligonucleotide Scientist II

About the role

Oligonucleotide Scientist II (Contract Role) located in South San Francisco, CA. Interview format: One round (30 minutes); local candidates interview on site, remote candidates may join virtually.

Key Responsibilities

• Work in an oligonucleotide therapeutic drug discovery research lab and interface across therapeutic areas (neuroscience, immunology, oncology) to help build a comprehensive therapeutic discovery strategy.
• Apply good understanding and troubleshooting experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and impurity profiling.
• 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 to meet 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.
• BS/MS in Organic Chemistry or a related discipline.
• Pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience in R&D of RNAi therapeutics is preferred.
• 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; strong problem‑solving, analytical, communication, and organizational skills.