Principal Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry & Innovation

Novartis AG; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 109,000 - 202,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working options

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Novartis is seeking a Principal Scientist I or II in Oligonucleotide Chemistry and Innovation in Cambridge, MA. You will lead development of chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates, mentor researchers, and drive forward the xRNA platform in a fast-paced discovery setting.

The role emphasizes innovative chemistry, robust synthetic routes for preclinical candidates, and collaboration across cross-functional teams to push RNA therapeutics toward clinical impact.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or related field.
• 5+ years experience in synthesizing therapeutic oligonucleotides.
• Expertise in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, deprotection, purification.
• Experience developing novel oligonucleotide chemistries and conjugates.
• Phosphoramidite chemistry and modern synthetic methods.
• Hands-on with automated oligonucleotide synthesizers and analytical instruments.
• Knowledge of RNA therapeutics including siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides.
• Excellent collaboration and communication across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead synthesis, purification, characterization, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates.
• Design and optimize novel oligonucleotide chemistries through SAR studies.
• Develop robust synthetic routes for preclinical RNA therapeutic candidates.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration to advance programs from discovery to preclinical.
• Mentor scientists and improve laboratory workflows.
• Establish and maintain SOPs supporting oligonucleotide manufacturing.
• Operate and maintain analytical and synthesis instrumentation (HPLC, LC-MS).

Skills

Collaboration & communication

Oligonucleotide synthesis

Analytical chemistry

Mentorship

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Automated oligonucleotide synthesizers

HPLC

LC-MS

Job description

Novartis is seeking a Principal Scientist I or II in Oligonucleotide Chemistry and Innovation in Cambridge, MA. You will lead development of chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates, mentor researchers, and drive forward the xRNA platform in a fast-paced discovery setting.

The role emphasizes innovative chemistry, robust synthetic routes for preclinical candidates, and collaboration across cross-functional teams to push RNA therapeutics toward clinical impact.