Principal Associate Scientist, Target Validation

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 95,600 - 143,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with a generous company match

Paid time off and wellness days

Job summary

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is seeking a Principal Associate Scientist to validate therapeutic gene targets through both in vitro and in vivo studies. This role focuses on supporting the discovery of RNAi medicines.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in biochemistry and molecular biology, with experience in mouse models. Responsibilities include engaging in preclinical research and preparing detailed reports. Comprehensive benefits and competitive pay range are included.

Qualifications

• 5-8 years of experience in an industrial setting.
• Experience with in vivo rodent studies.
• Proficiency in RNA/DNA/protein quantification assays.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mechanistic target validation and proof-of-concept preclinical research.
• Perform in vivo proof-of-concept studies.
• Prepare experimental reports and presentations.

Skills

Biochemistry

Cell and Molecular Biology

Mouse Models

Data Analysis

RNA Extraction

Laboratory Documentation

Education

BS/MS in Biology or related field

Tools

GraphPad Prism

Excel

Job description

Overview

The Research Department at Alnylam is seeking an experienced, highly motivated Principal Associate Scientist to validate therapeutic gene targets through in vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies to support discovery efforts for future RNAi medicines. As the pioneer in RNAi and the leading RNAi therapeutics company, we have always been uncompromisingly dedicated to translating the breakthrough science into transformational medicines for patients. The successful candidate will support development of current therapeutic programs in a multidisciplinary team and be involved in the discovery of RNAi compounds for a variety of novel indications and support their entry into the clinic. The successful candidate will be technically skilled in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, proficient with mouse models, and have strong interpersonal and communication skills. We particularly seek a detail-oriented, collaborative team player who is passionate about helping patients, and excels at multitasking independently under tight deadlines to progress drug discovery efforts.

This position is onsite and will be primarily located in Cambridge, MA.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage in a variety of investigative, mechanistic target validation and proof-of-concept preclinical research across various tissues and therapeutic areas of interest
• Perform in vivo proof-of-concept studies to evaluate novel extrahepatic, targeted siRNA delivery platforms across multiple pipeline programs and early discovery
• Develop, optimize, and validate new assays to support emerging targets, biomarker development and tissue-specific delivery evaluation
• Contribute to internal decision-making by integrating knockdown data with orthogonal readouts including protein, functional, and transcriptomic endpoints
• Prepare clearly articulated experimental reports and data presentations for a variety of audiences
• Maintain detailed, accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic data records with meticulous attention to data integrity

Qualifications

• BS/MS in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology or related field with 5-8 years of work experience, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Prior experience conducting and interpreting in vivo rodent studies, including subcutaneous, IP and IV dosing, retro-orbital bleeding, and tissue dissections
• Proficiency in RNA extraction across diverse tissue types, and molecular biology assays for RNA/DNA/protein quantification (qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunoprecipitations)
• Hands‑on experience in mammalian cell culture including maintenance, transfection, and work with primary cells (e.g., primary hepatocytes, cardiomyocytes, muscle cells)
• Strong quantitative data analysis skills; proficiency with GraphPad Prism, Excel, and standard statistical methods; meticulous laboratory notebook documentation
• Familiarity with muscle, cardiovascular or endocrine disease biology and relevant preclinical models preferred
• Excellent lab technique and demonstrated ability to perform and troubleshoot assays independently or with limited direction of supervisor(s)/project leader(s)
• Strong interpersonal skills and excellent communication skills (written and oral) are required

U.S. Pay Range

$95,600.00 - $143,400.00

Base pay will be determined based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education. This role is eligible for an annual short-term incentive award (e.g., bonus or sales incentive) and an annual long-term incentive award (e.g., equity).

Benefits

Alnylam’s robust Total Rewards package is designed to support your overall health and well-being. We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a lifestyle reimbursement program, flexible spending and health savings accounts and a 401(k) with a generous company match. Eligible employees enjoy paid time off, wellness days, holidays, and two company-wide recharge breaks. We also offer generous family resources and leave. Our commitment to your well-being reflects our belief that caring for our people fuels the impact we create together. Learn more about these and additional benefits offered by Alnylam by visiting the Benefits section of the Careers website: https://www.alnylam.com/careers.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Alnylam commits to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their sex, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, pregnancy status or related conditions, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital or familial status, political affiliation, age, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law. Alnylam is an E-Verify Employer.