Senior Scientist, siRNA Synthesis

About the Company

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology, and neuroscience—and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio.

About the Role

The Biotherapeutic and Genetic Medicine (BGM) department at AbbVie is seeking a motivated Principal Research Scientist I to join the growing siRNA team. In this role, you will work with the genetic medicine teams to establish siRNA synthesis, purification, and analytical capabilities. This individual will serve as a subject matter expert in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification, with responsibility for generating high-quality siRNA materials for advancing genetic medicine studies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the siRNA synthesis platform to support various stages of siRNA studies.
• Perform solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, deprotection, purification, and desalting of siRNA.
• Troubleshoot synthesis and purification challenges to improve yield, purity, and scalability.
• Work closely with the siRNA analytical colleagues to support characterization, data interpretation, and quality assessment of siRNA materials.
• Collaborate closely with the conjugation team to advance siRNA conjugate development and support platform and project objectives.
• Ensure rigorous documentation, data integrity, and compliance with internal quality standards.
• Track emerging technologies and best practices in oligonucleotide and RNA-based therapeutics.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, 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.
• Proven track record in gram-scale oligonucleotide synthesis using oligonucleotide synthesizers, as well as development of oligonucleotide purification methods using liquid chromatography systems.
• Strong knowledge of oligonucleotide chemistry and RNA chemistry.
• Experience working cross-functionally with analytical and conjugation teams.
• Demonstrated ability to independently solve complex technical problems and drive projects forward.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Strong track record of presenting scientific data to internal and external stakeholders.

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

Benefits

• Comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick).
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan for eligible employees.
• Eligibility to participate in short-term incentive programs.
• Potential eligibility to participate in long-term incentive programs.