Oligonucleotide Scientist II

Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 51,654 - 73,569; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology company in South San Francisco is seeking an Oligonucleotide Scientist II to join their team. The successful candidate will support oligonucleotide therapeutics discovery through synthesis and characterization. Responsibilities include working collaboratively in a research lab and establishing methods for lead molecule synthesis. Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and a degree in Organic Chemistry. This position offers a competitive hourly rate and a contract until the end of 2026.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis using automated systems.
• Experience with oligonucleotide purification and characterization using HPLC.
• Pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry experience in RNAi therapeutics preferred.

Responsibilities

• Work in oligonucleotide therapeutic drug discovery research lab.
• Establish methods for scaled-up synthesis of lead molecules.
• Collaborate with scientists to maintain common lab equipment.

Skills

Oligonucleotide synthesis

HPLC

Mass spectrometry

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

BS/MS in Organic Chemistry or related discipline

Tools

Automated oligo synthesizers

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Kelly is hiring a Oligonucleotide Scientist II for one of our clients in South San Francisco, CA

• Contract until 12/31/26 with potential to extend or convert to perm
• Standard M-F shift
• $45.45/hr

The Position:

We are seeking a creative, self-motivated, collaborative Contractor/Scientist-II to join the Nucleic Acid Design and Discovery (NADD) team within ProteinSciences (PS) department at Genentech. We are looking for a candidate with experience in oligonucleotide discovery and synthesis to support our new oligonucleotide therapeutics discovery group. Experience in delivery of oligonucleotide therapeutics, large molecule drug discovery, would be preferred. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary chemistry team working in RNAi biology research and will contribute positively to its developing culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• The candidate will work in an oligonucleotide therapeutic drug discovery research lab and interface across different therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, immunology and oncology, to help build a comprehensive therapeutic discovery strategy.
• Good understanding and also troubleshooting experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, impurity profiling is a plus.
• Collaborate with other scientists to maintain common lab equipment such as oligo synthesizers, HPLC and desalting units.
• Perform literature reviews, propose, and execute nucleic acid chemistry plans, coordinate chemistry and biology data to support oligonucleotide compound progression.
• Establish methods for scaled-up synthesis of lead molecules and coordinate material delivery for preclinical studies.
• Maintaining a high level of productivity in the laboratory setting to meet the timelines for in vitro and in vivo studies.

Requirements:

• The candidate must have hands‑on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis using automated oligo synthesizers, novel nucleic acid chemistry, oligonucleotide purification and characterization using HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• The qualified individual will possess a BS/MS in Organic Chemistry or related discipline.
• The pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience in research and development of RNAi therapeutics is preferred.
• A good understanding of nucleic acid therapeutic modalities, modification chemistries, sequence selection, and mechanism of action is preferred. Relevant experience in oligonucleotide therapeutics, large molecule drug discovery, oligonucleotide delivery or bio‑conjugation is desirable.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential and will be evaluated during the interview process.
• The ideal candidate should be highly motivated and have strong problem‑solving, analytical, communication and organizational skills.

Who We Are

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life‑threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer, and other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset and are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

The next step is yours. To apply today, click on the Apply online button.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer & prohibits unlawful discrimination based on origin/ancestry, age, disability, marital & veteran status. For more information about equal employment opportunity, visit our Genentech Careers page.

At Genentech, we share salary ranges with applicants during the recruiting process, if requested. Third party salary estimates may not be accurate or up-to-date.