Oligo Discovery Biology Principal Scientist
GSK
July 02, 2026
On-site
Cambridge, MA
Clinical Research and Development
Position Summary
GSK is seeking a highly motivated, flexible and independent Principal Scientist to join the Oligo Discovery Biology Team. The team conducts in vitro screening of oligos to support portfolio and platform projects. Establish, validate, and execute cell-based assays to evaluate oligo modalities such as siRNA, SSO’s, and ADAR editing oligos. Work with discovery scientists, automation engineers, and data analysts.
Responsibilities
- Independently design and execute cell and molecular biology experiments evaluating oligonucleotide activity and specificity.
- Establish new, robust, reproducible cell-based assays using immortalized and primary cells.
- Analyze and present experimental data and summaries with recommended next steps to broader teams.
- Lead and participate in discussions with cross-functional teams to support lead discovery.
- Mentor and coach early-career scientists; promote good lab practices; support high-quality experimental records.
Why You?
Basic Qualification (Required)
- MS with 8+ years or BS with 11+ years in molecular/cell biology (experience with cell types/systems such as CNS, liver, lung, kidney, adipose).
- Experience developing cell and molecular assays, including extensive RNA isolation and qPCR.
- Experience with oligonucleotide biology, including in vitro testing of ASOs, siRNA, SSO’s, or RNA editing oligos.
Preferred Qualification (Plus)
- Western blots and ELISA.
- High-throughput, cell-based screening assays for oligonucleotide therapeutics.
- Adipose cells and complex cell models.
- Method transfer to CROs/external collaborators.
- Leadership, mentoring, cross-functional collaboration, publications/patents/presentations.
- Strong communication, integrity, urgency, independence, and team-oriented mindset.
Compensation/Benefits
- If based in Cambridge, MA; Waltham, MA; Rockville, MD; or San Francisco, CA: annual base salary range $115,500–$192,500; annual bonus; eligibility for share-based long-term incentive. Benefits include health care and other insurance, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and paid caregiver/parental and medical leave.
GSK is seeking a highly motivated, flexible and independent Principal Scientist to join the Oligo Discovery Biology Team. The team conducts in vitro screening of oligos to support portfolio and platform projects. Establish, validate, and execute cell-based assays to evaluate oligo modalities such as siRNA, SSO’s, and ADAR editing oligos. Work with discovery scientists, automation engineers, and data analysts.
Responsibilities
- Independently design and execute cell and molecular biology experiments evaluating oligonucleotide activity and specificity.
- Establish new, robust, reproducible cell-based assays using immortalized and primary cells.
- Analyze and present experimental data and summaries with recommended next steps to broader teams.
- Lead and participate in discussions with cross-functional teams to support lead discovery.
- Mentor and coach early-career scientists; promote good lab practices; support high-quality experimental records.
Why You?
Basic Qualification (Required)
- MS with 8+ years or BS with 11+ years in molecular/cell biology (experience with cell types/systems such as CNS, liver, lung, kidney, adipose).
- Experience developing cell and molecular assays, including extensive RNA isolation and qPCR.
- Experience with oligonucleotide biology, including in vitro testing of ASOs, siRNA, SSO’s, or RNA editing oligos.
Preferred Qualification (Plus)
- Western blots and ELISA.
- High-throughput, cell-based screening assays for oligonucleotide therapeutics.
- Adipose cells and complex cell models.
- Method transfer to CROs/external collaborators.
- Leadership, mentoring, cross-functional collaboration, publications/patents/presentations.
- Strong communication, integrity, urgency, independence, and team-oriented mindset.
Compensation/Benefits
- If based in Cambridge, MA; Waltham, MA; Rockville, MD; or San Francisco, CA: annual base salary range $115,500–$192,500; annual bonus; eligibility for share-based long-term incentive. Benefits include health care and other insurance, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and paid caregiver/parental and medical leave.