Scientist, RNA Chemistry

BioSpace; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 118,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Dyne Therapeutics is seeking a Scientist, RNA Chemistry to design, synthesize, purify, and characterize modified RNA oligonucleotides and their conjugates in support of therapeutic programs. The role is based in Waltham, MA and requires expertise with oligonucleotide platforms and analytical methods.

The successful candidate will advance oligonucleotide chemistry, troubleshoot synthesis, interpret HPLC/LCMS data, and collaborate across teams to drive lead optimization and program milestones.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or a related field with 2 years of experience, or MSc with 8+ years of industry experience.
• Hands-on experience operating oligonucleotide synthesis and purification platforms (MerMade, Ka, AKTA Oligopilot).
• Experience with oligonucleotide conjugation, including antibody conjugation, is a plus.
• Familiarity with analytical assays for stability and mechanism of modified RNA oligonucleotides.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform synthesis of modified RNA oligonucleotides (ASO, siRNAs) with diverse chemistries.
• Troubleshoot and optimize synthesis methods for high quality oligonucleotides.
• Interpret analytical data (HPLC, LCMS) to improve purity and yields.
• Purify and characterize oligonucleotides and conjugates (anion exchange, RP, IEX, SEC).
• Register synthesized oligos in the database and report experiments in the ELN.
• Contribute to design of oligonucleotides and hit-to-lead optimization.
• Generate intermediates to prepare antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to define deliverables and timelines.

Skills

Oligonucleotide synthesis

Purification techniques

HPLC/LCMS data analysis

Antibody-oligonucleotide conjugation

Cross-functional collaboration

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related field

MSc with 8+ years industry experience

Tools

MerMade

K&A

AKTA Oligopilot

Job description

Company Overview

Dyne Therapeutics is focused on delivering functional improvement for people living with genetically driven neuromuscular diseases. We are developing therapeutics that target muscle and the central nervous system (CNS) to address the root cause of disease. The company is advancing clinical programs for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) as well as preclinical programs for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), Pompe disease and multiple DMD mutations. At Dyne, we are on a mission to deliver functional improvement for individuals, families and communities. Learn more at https://www.dyne-tx.com/, and follow us on X, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Role Summary

The Scientist, RNA Chemistry contributes to the development of Dyne’s oligonucleotide chemistry platform and supports the discovery of novel nucleic acid therapeutics. As a member of the Platform team, this role independently designs and executes the synthesis, purification, and characterization of oligonucleotides and their conjugates. The Scientist applies established methodologies, troubleshoots routine technical challenges, and leverages expertise in modified RNA synthesis to produce high-quality oligonucleotides using state-of-the-art laboratory technologies. This position is based in Waltham, MA.

Primary Responsibilities Include

• Independently perform synthesis of modified RNA oligonucleotides (ASO, siRNAs) incorporating diverse sugar and backbone chemistries at scales suitable for both in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Troubleshoot and optimize synthesis methods to produce high quality oligonucleotides of various lengths.
• Interpretation of analytical data (HPLC, LCMS) to enable improved purity and yields of synthesized oligonucleotides.
• Carry out purification (anion exchange, reverse phase), analysis (IP/RP, IEX, SEC), characterization (LCMS, UV, melting temperature) of oligonucleotides and their conjugates.
• Register synthesized oligonucleotides in the database (sequence, lot, and QC) and precisely report experiments in the ELN.
• Contribute to the design of oligonucleotides against various targets and rationally perform the hit-to-lead optimization process.
• Generate intermediates to prepare antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates.
• Cross-functional collaboration to define deliverables and timelines.
• Multi-task across several projects and manage time effectively to achieve results.
• Perform lab maintenance activities in collaboration with peer scientists and lab operations.
• Collect, present, and discuss data at internal team meetings.

Education And Skills Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with 2 years of experience, or MSc with a minimum of 8 years of relevant industry experience in biotechnology or life sciences. Postdoctoral experience is a plus
• Hands-on experience operating oligonucleotide synthesis and purification platforms, including MerMade, K&A, and AKTA Oligopilot.
• Experience with oligonucleotide conjugation, including antibody conjugation, is a plus.
• Familiarity with biochemical and analytical assays used to assess stability, properties, and mechanism of action of modified RNA oligonucleotides.
• Independently executes experimental work within defined research projects, applying sound scientific methodology to address increasingly complex problems.
• Interprets and communicates experimental data to support program advancement and decision-making.
• Demonstrates strong cross-functional collaboration skills, working effectively with internal partners to advance shared scientific objectives.

MA Pay Range

$118,000 - $145,000 USD

The pay range reflects the base pay range Dyne reasonably expects to pay for this role at the time of posting. Individual compensation depends on factors such as education, experience, job-related knowledge, and demonstrated skills.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principles functions for this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance workload.

Dyne Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law.