Research Scientist III, Oligo Chemistry
About The Position
The Research Scientist III is responsible for developing methods for the production and testing of new oligonucleotide products. The ideal candidate in this laboratory role will work with us to develop new product designs and processes, and participate in the transfer of that technology into process/product validation activities. General duties include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing and interpreting results, followed by communicating those results to both internal and external groups. This position reports to the Staff Scientist and is part of the Emerging Technology team located in Sunnyvale, CA and will be an on-site role.
Requirements
- Master’s degree in chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, or a related discipline; Ph.D. preferred.
- 3+ years of industrial hands‑on laboratory experience in the synthesis of unique oligonucleotide targets or closely related chemistry
- Strong practical expertise in phosphoramidite chemistry and solid‑phase oligo synthesis
- Experience using LC‑MS (high‑resolution preferred) or other orthogonal methods to characterize oligos and diagnose synthesis or process issues
- Proven experience optimizing synthesis or downstream process steps, including cleavage, deprotection, and purification
- Ability to travel 10% time domestic and international
- Ability to occasionally lift, move or carry equipment up to 10lb
- Ability to frequently work in a laboratory environment for extended periods
Nice To Haves
- Background in high-throughput biology, automation, and NGS-based analysis.
- Working with prototype instrumentation and collaborating with engineers.
- Environmental health and safety coordination work.
Responsibilities
- Develop oligonucleotide synthesis workflows with a strong focus on phosphoramidite chemistry and solid‑phase synthesis
- Apply organic chemistry principles to improve synthesis efficiency, yield, and product quality
- Design, execute, and optimize post-synthesis process steps, including cleavage, deprotection, and purification (e.g., cartridge, HPLC, or other relevant methods), utilizing high‑resolution mass spectrometry (LC‑MS) and complementary analytical techniques to assess oligo identity, purity, and failure modes
- Contribute to evaluation and implementation of new reagents, chemistries, or process improvements for oligo synthesis platforms
- Other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- paid time off
- medical/dental/vision insurance
- 401(k)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
