Principal Scientist (Oligonucleotide Conjugation)

Role Summary

Principal Scientist - Oligonucleotide Conjugation. This role involves designing, synthesizing, purifying, and analytically characterizing oligonucleotide conjugates; driving end-to-end conjugation projects; serving as the subject-matter expert in cross-functional teams; and contributing to research results for publications and patents. This position supports Amgen’s pipeline of siRNA-based therapeutics.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, purify, and analytically characterize oligonucleotide conjugates‚Äîincluding optimizing synthesis/conjugation/purification protocols.
• Drive technical execution of conjugation projects from start to finish and perform hands-on conjugate synthesis (developing and optimizing conjugation strategies and purification methods).
• Serve as the oligonucleotide conjugation subject-matter expert (SME) in cross-functional team meetings. Conduct biophysical/biochemical assays (e.g., ELISA, SPR, FRET, BLI, DSF, DLS) to evaluate target binding and stability of oligonucleotide conjugates.
• Train as needed, collaborate with the Genetic Medicines group and cross-functional teams to meet project objectives and timelines. Prepare research results for presentations, patent applications, and scientific publications. (This role supports Amgen‚Äôs pipeline of siRNA-based therapeutics.)

Qualifications

• Basic Qualifications:
  • Doctorate degree (PhD) OR PharmD OR MD and 2 years relevant experience OR
  • Master’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience
  • Bachelor’s degree and 7 years of relevant experience
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline with 3–5 years experience in biotech/pharma plus specific experience in oligonucleotide conjugation (designing, synthesizing, and characterizing oligo conjugates of small molecules, linkers, peptides, proteins, etc.)
• ‚Ä¢ Expertise in conjugation chemistries and site-specific bioconjugation techniques, along with familiarity with RNA therapeutic modalities (ASO, siRNA, etc.).
• ‚Ä¢ Proficiency in preparative and analytical chromatography techniques (IEX, RP-HPLC, SEC, LC-MS) for oligonucleotides and conjugates thereof, is required.
• ‚Ä¢ Experience with automated oligonucleotide synthesizers and associated processes (on-resin conjugation, cleavage & deprotection, desalting, formulation) is a plus.
• ‚Ä¢ Must demonstrate ability to conduct independent research and have strong communication/teamwork skills in a dynamic environment.