Chemist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Role Summary

Chemist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry. The Lilly Genetic Medicines Team is looking for a collaborative, creative and energetic problem solver to join a multidisciplinary team at the front edge of innovation. You will join a fast-paced, interdisciplinary team as we utilize novel RNA/oligonucleotide based therapeutic modalities to enhance the Lilly portfolio and accelerate the development of 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 scaleup.
• Collaborate with the analytical team for the proper analysis and characterization of processed molecules.
• Actively support 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

• Bachelor‚Äôs and/or Master‚Äôs in Organic Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with 1+ years of experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry.
• 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.
• Strong hands-on experience with phosphoramidite chemistry, particularly oligonucleotide synthesis.
• Hands-on experience with nucleoside chemistry is strongly desired.
• Deep understanding of impurity profiles in phosphoramidite reagents and their impact on oligonucleotide quality.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as 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.
• Confident, execution-focused with a strong desire to thrive within a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to function well within a team.
• Strong communication and organizational skills for accurate record keeping, independent data analysis, and reporting of data in compliance with company standards.
• Ability to identify and implement strategies that streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency.

Skills

• Analytical instrumentation proficiency (e.g., AKTA, LC-MS, UPLC, HPLC, NMR, UV).
• Phosphoramidite chemistry proficiency in oligonucleotide synthesis.
• Nucleoside chemistry familiarity.
• Laboratory troubleshooting and workflow optimization.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.