Principal Scientist, RNA Purification Process Development
About The Position
The RNA Purification Process Development function plays a central role in designing efficient, robust, and scalable manufacturing processes. By combining deep scientific expertise with enabling technologies and strong cross-functional partnerships, RNA Process Development delivers transformative innovation across the pipeline. The Principal Scientist is a scientific leader responsible for driving RNA drug substance purification development strategies, influencing cross-functional decisions, and delivering high-impact outcomes across increasingly diverse portfolio. The Principal Scientist provides scientific leadership for drug substance programs spanning early- to late-stage development across circular and linear mRNA modalities. This role encompasses hands-on and technical leadership contributions, addressing critical challenges by driving sound experimental execution and manufacturing support. The candidate should be driven by developing and characterizing chromatography and filtration steps for improving the yield, quality and robustness of purification process steps.
Requirements
- Degree in Bio/Chemical Engineering, Bio/Chemistry, or related field
- MS with 8+ years’ or PhD with 3+ years’ experience in science related disciplines
- Expertise in chromatography, filtration, and innovative separation unit operations
- Working knowledge of statistical design of experiments (DoE) and analysis of multivariate data
- Experience with performing and interpreting RNA analytics and biophysical characterization techniques for RNA such as HPLC, CE, NGS, & gel electrophoresis
- Knowledge of cGMP, ICH, regulatory guidelines and QbD principles as they apply to risk management and clinical development
- Demonstrated background of providing technical support for clinical manufacturing processes, including support of process investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Knowledge of in vitro transcription reactions and the resulting downstream feed is preferred
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
- Ability to lead complex projects independently and influence decisions across matrixed teams and governance forums.
- Prior experience managing, mentoring, or developing scientists in an industrial setting
Responsibilities
- Lead RNA purification development strategy for drug substance programs across a portfolio that may include circular RNA and mRNA, spanning early- and late-stage development.
- Provide strategic oversight of process development, and manufacturability, while contributing hands-on scientific input where needed to resolve critical technical challenges.
- Apply first-principles approaches to assess and mitigate risks, defining mitigation strategies and making critical scientific recommendations at key program milestones.
- Represent drug substance development strategies in cross-functional CMC teams, ensuring alignment across analytical development, engineering, regulatory affairs, and supply chain.
- Set clear priorities and objectives for Purification PD in alignment with portfolio goals and RNA PD’s broader organizational strategy.
- Mentor and develop scientists across RNA Purification PD, contributing to a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learning.
- Foster an inclusive, high-performance team environment built on psychological safety, accountability, and collaboration.
- Propose and lead departmental initiatives that improve scientific workflows, sustainability practices, and operational efficiency.
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with external academic institutions and industry partners to accelerate scientific advancement.
- Represent capabilities at internal reviews, scientific conferences, and through peer-reviewed publications.
- Serve as a key scientific voice in cross-functional CMC teams and broader enterprise forums.
- Partner with functional areas - including research, analytical development, engineering, and drug product development.
- Collaborate with RNA organization leadership to drive strategic alignment across the portfolio.
Benefits
- Medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision care.
- BMS Well-Being Account, BMS Living Life Better, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
- 401(k) plan, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, accident insurance, supplemental health insurance, business travel protection, personal liability protection, identity theft benefit, legal support, and survivor support.
- flexible time off (unlimited, with manager approval, 11 paid national holidays (not applicable to employees in Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico or Rayzebio employees))
- 160 hours annual paid vacation for new hires with manager approval, 11 national holidays, and 3 optional holidays
- unlimited paid sick time, up to 2 paid volunteer days per year, summer hours flexibility, leaves of absence for medical, personal, parental, caregiver, bereavement, and military needs and an annual Global Shutdown between Christmas and New Years Day.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
