Associate Scientist / Sr. Associate Scientist - In Vivo Pharmacology (CONTRACT)

Orna Therapeutics; Watertown (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology startup in Watertown is seeking a motivated Contract Associate Scientist or Sr. Associate Scientist to support innovative research in RNA therapeutics. Candidates should have significant laboratory experience with rodents and proficiency in in vivo techniques. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries within a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 4 years of hands-on rodent experience.
• Proficiency in in vivo techniques including behavioral assessments, anesthesia, and imaging.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and execute preclinical in vivo pharmacology studies.
• Perform advanced procedures including animal handling and test article administration.
• Document study data in compliance with regulatory standards.

Skills

Animal handling and restraint

In vivo techniques

Behavioral assessments

Anesthesia

Imaging

Tissue processing

PCR

ELISA

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field

Job description

Orna Therapeutics is an innovative biotechnology startup based in Watertown, MA, committed to developing groundbreaking therapies for diseases that current approaches cannot address. With our pioneering circular RNA technology, developed at MIT, we are at the forefront of advancing the next generation of RNA therapeutics. Our state-of-the-art expression and delivery platform positions us to tackle complex diseases, including B cell-driven autoimmune disorders, B cell malignancies, sickle cell disease, and beyond.

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Contract Associate Scientist or Sr. Associate Scientist to support in vivo and ex vivo research activities across multiple preclinical programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working with laboratory rodents and a strong foundation in in vivo techniques. This is a contract role offering an opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific discovery in a collaborative research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and execute preclinical in vivo pharmacology studies in rodents (mice and rats)
• Perform routine and advanced procedures including animal handling and restraint, test article administration (e.g., IV, IP, SC, PO), blood and tissue collection, and necropsy, following IACUC guidelines and internal protocols
• Accurately document study data and observations in compliance with regulatory and quality standards
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field preferred
• Minimum 4 years of hands-on rodent experience in a laboratory or preclinical research setting
• Demonstrated proficiency in in vivo techniques including behavioral assessments, anesthesia, imaging (e.g., IVIS), and tissue harvesting
• Experience with ex vivo analyses such as tissue processing, PCR, ELISA, and cell suspension preparation is a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with sound problem-solving abilities
• Must demonstrate a commitment to the humane and ethical care of laboratory animals
• Experience handling rats is strongly preferred
  
  

Why Orna? At Orna Therapeutics, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a community. We believe in fostering an environment where individuals can grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact on the future of healthcare. Join us as we revolutionize RNA therapeutics and make a difference in the lives of patients around the world.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Individuals seeking employment at Orna Therapeutics are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

We are unable to sponsor visas for contract roles.