Senior Scientist, siRNA Design and Off-Target Analysis

About the role

AbbVie's Biotherapeutic and Genetic Medicine (BGM) department is seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist with deep expertise in computational biology, molecular design, and next-generation sequencing to support siRNA design and off-target assessment. This role will establish and optimize siRNA sequences with enhanced knockdown efficacy and reduced off-target liabilities, develop off-target assessment workflows, and integrate transcriptomic and genomic data. The ideal candidate will combine strong biological insight with quantitative skills to advance siRNA design, identify potential off-target risks, and contribute to the development of safer, more selective RNA-based therapeutics.

Responsibilities

• Establish, implement, and improve pipelines for siRNA sequence design, integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and RNA structural data along with other factors that influence siRNA target specificity and efficacy.
• Build machine learning models based on high-throughput siRNA screening data to improve siRNA sequence selection.
• Collaborate with internal teams on NGS library preparation for off-target analysis.
• Interpret transcriptomic data to identify potential off-target signals and biological risk.
• Develop, maintain, and version-control reusable tools, scripts, and pipelines in Python, R, or other programming languages to support analysis, visualization, automation, and reporting.
• Generate clear and traceable data analysis reports, slide decks, and technical summaries.
• Collaborate with in vitro assay scientists, oligonucleotide scientists, and AI colleagues, and cross-functional partners to translate findings into actionable biological insights.
• Support transcriptomic and targeted validation studies relevant to seed-mediated and sequence-dependent off-target effects.
• Stay current on advances in RNAi biology, off-target analysis, transcriptomics, and computational methods relevant to nonclinical safety assessment.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in computational biology, genomics, RNA biology, or a related field with typically 0-4+ years (PhD), 8-10+ years (MS), or 10-12+ years (BS) of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience.
• Proficiency in Python and/or R, or other programming languages, with experience developing reproducible analytical workflows and analysis pipelines.
• Experience supporting off-target analysis, mechanistic interpretation, or risk assessment for siRNA, ASO, or related therapeutic modalities.
• Strong background in NGS library preparation technologies and transcriptomic data analysis.
• Strong understanding of molecular and cellular biology, with the ability to translate transcriptomic findings into biologically meaningful conclusions.
• Experience preparing scientific reports, presentations, or regulatory-facing documentation.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and contribute effectively in a cross-functional environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with transcriptome and other multi-omics data integration.
• Experience with RNA biology, RNAi mechanisms, or nucleic acid therapeutics.
• Prior experience evaluating machine learning-enabled scientific workflows, including LLM-assisted or agentic tools.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, or translational research settings.

Position will be filled at level commensurate with extent of education, experience, and accomplishment - Senior Scientist I or Senior Scientist II.