RNA Therapeutics Analytical Chemist (HPLC/LC-MS)

Eleven Therapeutics; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

ScionxBio in Cambridge is seeking an ambitious Analytical Chemist to join our fast-paced lab. You will purify and characterize novel mRNA constructs and modified oligonucleotides, supporting chemists, molecular biologists, and formulation scientists with high-quality analytical data.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry or related field and has hands-on experience with HPLC and LC-MS.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Direct hands-on industrial or internship experience operating HPLC systems and LC-MS instruments.
• Basic working knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry, synthetic oligonucleotides, or RNA concepts.
• Familiarity with common chromatographic techniques (e.g. Reversed-Phase, Ion-Pair RP, or Anion Exchange).
• Solid problem-solving skills with the ability to optimise oligonucleotide purification workflows.
• Attention to detail/strong documentation/willingness to learn in a fast paced interdisciplinary research environment.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills, dynamic and ability to thrive as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Routine HPLC purification: Execute semi-preparative and preparative HPLC methods to purify synthetic oligonucleotides, modified xRNA constructs, and mRNA samples to meet purity standards.
• Analytical testing & sample analysis: Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation (HPLC, LC-MS) to assess the purity, concentration, and structural integrity of various RNA constructs.
• Chemical characterisation: Prepare samples and perform routine LC-MS analysis to confirm chemical modifications and sequence identity.
• Downstream processing: Conduct post-synthesis and post-purification handling, including desalting, lyophilization, gel analysis, concentration determination and aliquot preparation.
• Equipment maintenance & troubleshooting: Perform routine instrument maintenance, system suitability checks, and basic troubleshooting for HPLC and LC-MS systems to minimise downtime.
• Cross-functional support & documentation: Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, summarise analytical results clearly, and communicate data effectively to cross-functional teams in chemistry and biology.

Skills

Purification workflows

HPLC operation

LC-MS data interpretation

Analytical chemistry

Education

Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry / Biochemistry

Tools

HPLC systems

LC-MS instruments

Job description

ScionxBio in Cambridge is seeking an ambitious Analytical Chemist to join our fast-paced lab. You will purify and characterize novel mRNA constructs and modified oligonucleotides, supporting chemists, molecular biologists, and formulation scientists with high-quality analytical data.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry or related field and has hands-on experience with HPLC and LC-MS.