Principal Scientist - Oligonucleotide Design and Chemistry
About The Position
The Therapeutic Modalities and Technologies group in the Protein Sciences organization at Genentech is responsible for the design and generation of new therapeutic modalities that combine the engineering and analytical principles of multiple scientific disciplines. We are excited to be at the forefront of therapeutic design by generating molecules with unique mechanisms of action. We are seeking a talented and dynamic individual with extensive oligonucleotide experience to join our team as a Principal Scientist (Group Leader), and support our nucleic-acid based medicines portfolio. This role offers a significant opportunity to impact our science and pipeline by leading the design and synthesis of novel oligonucleotides for drug discovery programs. The successful candidate will be a technical leader taking on responsibilities across the portfolio.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Organic/Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Oligonucleotide Chemistry, or a closely related field, with 3+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience.
- Strong hands-on knowledge of siRNA and/or ASO therapeutics, including synthesis, purification, analytics, and fluency with diverse backbone modifications and delivery technologies.
- Proven track record of leading scientific initiatives, mentoring team members, and driving cross-functional collaborations (evidenced by publications or patents).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in designing optimized oligonucleotide conjugates, linker discovery, or bioconjugation optimization is an asset.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design, synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel oligonucleotide modalities (e.g., ASOs, siRNAs, saRNAs) across drug discovery programs.
- Guide and mentor junior scientists in chemical synthesis, troubleshooting, impurity profiling, and analytical characterization.
- Partner closely with biology and biochemistry teams to design in vitro/in vivo assays, interpret complex data, and facilitate rapid decision-making.
- Serve as a technical authority across the nucleic-acid portfolio, communicating scientific progress, key milestones, and insights to multidisciplinary project teams and stakeholders.
- Manage cutting-edge laboratory instrumentation and maintain smooth, efficient lab operations to accelerate research outcomes.
- Foster an open, highly collaborative, and inclusive environment that encourages bold scientific curiosity and innovative problem-solving.
Benefits
- Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.
- A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.
- Benefits detailed at the link provided below.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
