Principal Associate Scientist, RNAi Discovery

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals • Cambridge, MA

3h • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Department at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals is seeking a Principal Associate Scientist to join our High Throughput In Vitro team within the RNAi Discovery group. This dynamic, interdisciplinary team drives the discovery and development of novel RNAi therapeutics—from target identification through lead candidate selection.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in in vitro research and biological sciences, along with a robust technical skillset and enthusiasm for scientific innovation. Success in this role requires excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, the ability to manage multiple projects, and a commitment to learning and sharing new techniques.
We are looking for a detail-oriented, motivated team player who thrives in a fast-paced, goal-driven environment and is eager to contribute to Alnylam’s mission of transforming the treatment of human disease through RNAi therapeutics.
This position is lab-based onsite and will be primarily located in Cambridge, MA.

Requirements

• BS/MS in Biology, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 5–8 years of relevant experience, preferably in an industrial or biotech environment
• Proficiency in mammalian cell culture, including maintenance and transfection of immortalized and primary cell lines
• Skilled in molecular biology techniques for RNA, DNA, and protein quantification (qPCR, dPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunoprecipitation)
• Strong knowledge of experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific troubleshooting
• Highly detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word) and GraphPad Prism

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience or strong understanding of nucleic acid–based therapeutics (siRNA, ASO, CRISPR) highly desired
• Hands-on experience with laboratory automation systems, including liquid-handling platforms such as PerkinElmer JANUS, Beckman i7, or similar

Responsibilities

• Conduct a wide range of in vitro siRNA research studies to evaluate RNAi compounds using biochemical, molecular, and cell-based assays.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute day-to-day high-throughput in vitro experiments, including transfection, RNA extraction, qPCR, data upload, and statistical analysis.
• Design, perform, and interpret experiments independently and collaboratively, providing critical troubleshooting and technical insight.
• Maintain and culture various cell types (iPSCs, primary cells, immortalized cell lines) to support research objectives and facilitate high-throughput siRNA screening through qPCR and cell-based assays.
• Ensure accurate data recording, analysis, and timely reporting, preparing clear and detailed experimental summaries, documentation, and presentations.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges, contributing to the ongoing optimization and development of experimental protocols.
• Operate and maintain automated instrumentation and robotic systems to support high-throughput (384-well) screening workflows.

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a lifestyle reimbursement program, flexible spending and health savings accounts and a 401(k)with a generous company match
• Eligible employees enjoy paid time off, wellness days, holidays, and two company-wide recharge breaks.
• We also offer generous family resources and leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees