Principal Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry Research

Role Summary

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and accomplished chemist/biochemist with a proven track record of success in designing and synthesizing oligonucleotide-based molecules and optimizing them towards the clinical development candidate stage. The candidate will work in a fast-paced environment and play a key role in the discovery of next-generation siRNA-based therapeutics for our three therapeutic areas of interest: neurology, neuroendocrinology, and neuroimmunology.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize and characterize novel siRNA oligonucleotides, siRNA libraries, and collaborate with the Bioconjugation team where applicable to generate novel oligo-based Bioconjugates
• With a strong lab presence, setup internal siRNA synthesis chemistry capability in collaboration with the Director, Oligonucleotide Chemistry
• Participate in and/or lead cross-functional discovery projects and project teams
• Drive the development and incorporation of novel technologies, methods, oligonucleotide modifications into the Oligonucleotide Chemistry team
• Collaborate closely with the broader research team by communicating results, sharing insights, making plans, and setting goals in an open and collaborative way to enable project success
• Anticipates potential issues and provides contingencies and resolutions to continuously improve that process
• Aid in the evaluation of external partnering opportunities
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• PhD (preferred) in chemistry or related field and 7+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and prior managerial / functional management experience
• MS/MA degree and 10+ years of similar experience as noted above, OR
• BS/BA degree and 12+ years of similar experience
• Demonstrated scientific excellence in oligonucleotide/siRNA chemistry or related research, as evidenced by significant patents and/or publications in the field
• Demonstrated delivery of clinical candidate siRNA-based molecules
• Expert understanding of the drug discovery process for siRNA
• Thorough understanding of developability and associated assays
• Experience and knowledge in protein bioconjugation and/or targeted delivery technologies is strongly preferred
• Overall strong work ethic and willingness to engage in projects across therapeutic areas
• Applies in-depth knowledge of own function, business / commercial / scientific expertise to solve critical issues successfully and innovatively
• Evaluates key business / scientific challenges and completes complex, ambiguous initiatives having cross-functional impact
• Sees broader picture, impact on multiple programs, teams and/or departments
• Ability to effectively interact with multiple functions across the organization, and effectively communicate results and strategies to staff and company executives
• Strong attention to detail; excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Excellent problem solving and analytical thinking skills