Associate Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry & Delivery

Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the largest medical challenges of our time. Denali Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies for neurodegenerative diseases through our deep commitment to degeneration biology and principles of translational medicine. Denali is founded on the collaboration of leading scientists, industry experts, and investors who share the vision that scientific discovery energetically applied to translational medicine is the key to delivering effective therapies to patients. We invite you to consider an opportunity with Denali to help achieve our goal of delivering meaningful therapeutics to patients. This role will apply oligonucleotide chemistry and bioconjugation expertise to advance novel therapeutics within our Oligonucleotide Transport Vehicle (OTV) platform. This is an exciting and unique opportunity to contribute to several programs and position us for the future as our groundbreaking OTV therapeutics enter the clinical phase. Key Accountabilities/Core Job Responsibilities: Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize oligonucleotide therapeutics, including siRNA/ASOs, in support of early discovery OTV programs. Design and generate antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates to support targeted delivery of siRNA/ASOs using established and emerging bioconjugation technologies. Support high-throughput and mid-scale oligonucleotide synthesis activities, including the evaluation of novel chemistries, modifications, and workflow innovations to enable rapid discovery-stage generation of siRNA/ASOs and bioconjugates within one or more preclinical drug discovery programs. Develop, refine, and troubleshoot oligonucleotide synthesis, bioconjugation, purification, and analytical methods in support of new biotherapeutic designs. Apply analytical technologies, including UV–Vis spectrophotometry, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS), multi-angle light scattering (MALS), and other orthogonal characterization techniques, to analyze, purify, quantify, and characterize oligonucleotides and bioconjugates. Interpret in vitro and in vivo experimental data to generate structure-activity relationships (SAR) informing iterative experiment design and ultimately advancing preclinical candidate nomination. Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners across Biology, Protein Sciences, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK), and related functions to advance drug discovery objectives and support program progression. Maintain accurate, complete, and timely documentation of experimental data in electronic laboratory notebooks. Communicate scientific results, technical insights, and recommendations clearly in team meetings and cross-functional discussions. Contribute to a collaborative, innovative, and scientifically rigorous research environment. Qualifications/Skills: Typically requires a minimum of 2+ years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 1+ years and a Master’s degree Strong hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and characterization, including siRNA/ASOs. Experience with bioconjugation chemistry and analytical characterization of oligonucleotide conjugates. Demonstrated ability to develop and troubleshoot experimental workflows and to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments in a discovery research setting. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team. Salary Range: $106,000.00 to $138,000.00 . Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Denali offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k, healthcare coverage, ESPP and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at https://www.denalitherapeutics.com/careers This compensation and benefits information is based on Denali’s good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future. Denali is committed to its core company value of unity by creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, basis of disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class. “Life at Denali” is a living reflection of our values: trust, unity, grit and growth. These are not just words we share—they shape how we show up, collaborate and push boundaries together. From the lab to the community, across functions and milestones, our culture thrives on shared purpose and relentless pursuit.