Chemist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Role Summary

Chemist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

We are seeking a collaborative, creative and energetic problem solver to join a multidisciplinary team at the front edge of innovation, focusing on RNA/oligonucleotide-based therapeutic modalities to accelerate internal RNAi-based clinical candidates.

Responsibilities

• Help lead the discovery oligosynthesis scale-up group within LGM.
• Collaborate with the LGM discovery chemistry teams to understand and validate requirements for synthesis scale-up.
• Collaborate with the analytical team for analysis and characterization of processed molecules.
• Support the discovery of lead drug candidates and collaborate with CMC and development teams to drive high-speed innovation.
• Oversee and prioritize the work of contractors to meet critical timelines.
• Synthesize therapeutic oligonucleotides (ASO, siRNA, and others) from 150-6000 umol scales using automated solid-phase synthesizers.
• Independently problem-solve in the laboratory to overcome synthetic challenges and improve workflows.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and manage laboratory inventory/consumables.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and workflows.

Qualifications

• Bachelors and/or Masters in Organic Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field with 1+ years of experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry.

Skills

• Strong laboratory skills and experience with analytical instrumentation such as AKTA, Agilent LC-MS and UPLC, Vanquish LTQ, Waters QDA, etc.
• Proven ability to deliver on critical deadlines within a highly interdisciplinary group.
• Hands-on experience with phosphoramidite chemistry, particularly in oligonucleotide synthesis.
• Experience with nucleoside chemistry is strongly desired.
• Understanding of impurity profiles in phosphoramidite reagents and their impact on oligonucleotide quality.
• Experience with HPLC, LC-MS, NMR, and UV spectroscopy for monitoring synthesis and characterizing impurities.
• Ability to troubleshoot synthesis failures due to solubility, moisture sensitivity, or reagent degradation.
• Proven ability to improve reactions from proof-of-concept to larger scales.
• Execution-focused with a strong desire to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Team-oriented with strong communication and organizational skills for accurate record-keeping and data reporting in compliance with company standards.
• Ability to identify and implement strategies to streamline operations and reduce waste.

Education

• Bachelors and/or Masters in Organic Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field.