Medicinal Chemistry Co-op (Fall 2026)

Wave Life Sciences • Cambridge, MA

13h

About The Position

Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Our RNA medicines platform, PRISM, combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders. Our toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities includes editing, splicing, RNA interference and antisense silencing, providing us with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology. Our diversified pipeline includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Huntington’s disease, as well as a clinical program in obesity and a preclinical program in NASH/MASH. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible”, we are leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease. Description: Wave Life Sciences USA seeks a highly motivated, energetic, safety conscious and results-driven candidate to join its team of medicinal chemists in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The co-op’s role will primarily consist of laboratory work in support of the medicinal chemistry team’s efforts. The candidate will be responsible for planning, designing and executing multi-step synthesis including purification and compound characterization. The candidate will also be responsible for analysis of raw materials and final products received and maintain records. The candidate will be trained in a variety of laboratory techniques and instrumentation (including NMR, UPLC/MS, polarimeter, Isco column chromatography, benchtop rotovap, etc.), making this an excellent learning opportunity. These efforts will support the development of novel nucleic acid therapies across multiple disease areas.

Requirements

• Working towards a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related discipline (i.e. biochemistry, chemical engineering)
• At least two years of an undergraduate education completed within a Chemistry discipline preferred
• Must have successfully completed Organic Chemistry courses (I and II or equivalent) with lab
• Must possess excellent oral and written skills, as well as superior organizational and time management skills

Nice To Haves

• Enthusiasm and excitement for the pursuit of cutting-edge science
• Basic understanding of molecular and cell biology
• Organic and biochemistry lab experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Perform multi-step organic synthesis, isolate newly synthesized chemical compounds
• Analyze chemical compounds through various analytical techniques (UV-Vis, LC/MS, Polarimeter, NMRs etc.) and interpret experimental outcomes
• Troubleshoot and optimize reaction protocols based on discussions with their supervisor
• Take detailed notes about the experimental design and conditions, record these experimental results in both electronic notebook and presentation format
• Present data and summarized results both orally and in written form, within multidisciplinary team meeting

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern