Group Leader: Oligonucleotide Design & Chemistry

Roche; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 143,000 - 266,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation benefits

Job summary

Roche in South San Francisco is seeking a Principal Scientist (Group Leader) to drive the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel oligonucleotide modalities for drug discovery. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, mentor scientists, and partner with biology and biochemistry to translate data into rapid decisions.

The role emphasizes technical leadership across the nucleic-acid portfolio, with responsibilities spanning strategy, lab operations, and cross-team collaboration.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic/Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Oligonucleotide Chemistry, or related field with 3+ years postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Hands-on knowledge of siRNA and/or ASO therapeutics, including synthesis, purification, analytics, and backbone modifications/delivery technologies.
• Proven track record leading scientific initiatives and driving cross-functional collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel oligonucleotide modalities (ASOs, siRNAs, saRNAs).
• Lead and mentor junior scientists in synthesis, troubleshooting, and analytical characterization.
• Collaborate with biology/biochemistry teams to design in vitro/in vivo assays and interpret data.

Skills

Oligonucleotide chemistry

Scientific leadership

Communication

Bioconjugation techniques

Education

PhD in Organic/Medicinal Chemistry or related

Tools

Bioconjugation techniques

Job description

Roche in South San Francisco is seeking a Principal Scientist (Group Leader) to drive the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel oligonucleotide modalities for drug discovery. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, mentor scientists, and partner with biology and biochemistry to translate data into rapid decisions.

The role emphasizes technical leadership across the nucleic-acid portfolio, with responsibilities spanning strategy, lab operations, and cross-team collaboration.