Senior Scientist I, siRNA Pipeline Development & SAR Optimization

About the role

AbbVie is seeking a Senior Scientist I to join our siRNA group within the Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) department. This role involves leading research efforts, designing and executing experiments, and collaborating across functions to support the development of novel RNA-based therapies.

Responsibilities

• Lead research efforts within a cross-functional team to advance new therapeutic targets for siRNA-based pipeline development.
• Design and execute in vitro and in vivo proof-of-concept studies to evaluate siRNA library and characterize lead compounds for the target engagement and therapeutic benefits.
• Design and execute structure-activity-relationship (SAR) studies for lead optimization, including optimization of siRNA sequence, chemical modification patterns, conjugation sites and linkers, etc.
• Provide scientific leadership and expertise in candidate nomination and pipeline development.
• Work independently and maintain a high level of productivity in the laboratory, ensuring efficiency and scientific rigor.
• Analyze and interpret multidisciplinary data to generate actionable conclusions and guide future experimental directions.
• Collaborate and effectively communicate results with key stakeholders and cross-functional teams throughout the organization.
• Contribute as a primary author to scientific publications, presentations, and/or as a primary inventor of patent applications.
• Mentor and support junior scientists within the team.

Requirements

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field with typically 10+ years (BS), 8+ years (MS), or 0-3 years (PhD) of experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in siRNA therapeutics, including library design, screening and characterization of SAR.
• Demonstrated expertise for siRNA candidate nomination and pipeline development.
• Extensive hands-on experience and techniques for molecular and RNA biology, including cell culture, RNA extraction, RNA quantification (RT-PCR, qPCR, ddPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, protein assays (ELISA, Western Blot, JESS), flow cytometry and other biomarker quantification.
• Experience in assay development and high-throughput screening for siRNA target identification and validation, mechanism of action studies, biodistribution and biomarker analysis is a plus.
• Strong understanding of ex-hepatic delivery of siRNA is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to develop, troubleshoot and refine assays to enhance sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput.
• Highly self-motivated and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience contributing to technical reports, publications, or regulatory documentation.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field with typically 10+ years (BS), 8+ years (MS), or 0-3 years (PhD) of experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in siRNA therapeutics, including library design, screening and characterization of SAR.
• Demonstrated expertise for siRNA candidate nomination and pipeline development.
• Extensive hands-on experience and techniques for molecular and RNA biology, including cell culture, RNA extraction, RNA quantification (RT-PCR, qPCR, ddPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, protein assays (ELISA, Western Blot, JESS), flow cytometry and other biomarker quantification.
• Experience in assay development and high-throughput screening for siRNA target identification and validation, mechanism of action studies, biodistribution and biomarker analysis is a plus.
• Strong understanding of ex-hepatic delivery of siRNA is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to develop, troubleshoot and refine assays to enhance sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput.
• Highly self-motivated and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience contributing to technical reports, publications, or regulatory documentation.

Skills

• Expertise in siRNA therapeutics, including library design, screening and characterization of SAR.
• Expertise for siRNA candidate nomination and pipeline development.
• Hands-on experience and techniques for molecular and RNA biology.
• Experience in assay development and high-throughput screening.
• Understanding of ex-hepatic delivery of siRNA.
• Ability to develop, troubleshoot and refine assays.
• Strong communication and mentoring skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).
• Short-term incentive programs.

Pay

$96,500 - $183,500 USD

Schedule

Full-time