Scientist, RNA Chemistry

Initial Therapeutics, Inc.; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 118,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Initial Therapeutics, Inc. in Waltham, MA is seeking a Scientist in RNA Chemistry to join the Platform team. The role involves developing oligonucleotide technologies and requires expertise in nucleic acid therapeutics. Candidates should have a PhD in Chemistry or an MSc with substantial industry experience.

This full-time position offers a competitive salary range of $118,000 - $145,000, depending on experience and qualifications. The role emphasizes collaboration, innovative problem-solving, and contribution to scientific advancement.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or related field with 2 years of experience, or MSc with 8 years in biotech/life sciences.
• Hands-on experience with oligonucleotide synthesis and purification platforms.
• Ability to interpret and report experimental data effectively.

Responsibilities

• Independently synthesize modified RNA oligonucleotides.
• Optimize synthesis methods for high-quality oligonucleotides.
• Present and discuss data in internal meetings.

Skills

Oligonucleotide synthesis

Analytical data interpretation (HPLC, LC/MS)

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related discipline

MSc with 8 years of relevant 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) and Pompe disease. At Dyne, we are on a mission to deliver functional improvement for individuals, families and communities.

Role Summary

As a member of the Platform team, the Scientist, RNA Chemistry will contribute to the development of Dyne’s oligonucleotide chemistry platform and support the discovery of novel nucleic acid therapeutics. This individual is responsible for independent design and hands‑on execution of oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and analysis of oligonucleotides and their conjugates. The scientist will apply established methods, troubleshoot routine issues, and have technical expertise in modified RNA synthesis and independently produce high quality oligonucleotides using state‑of‑the‑art lab equipment. The position is full time based in Waltham, MA.

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently perform synthesis of modified RNA oligonucleotides (ASO, siRNA) 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.
• Interpret analytical data (HPLC, LC/MS) to enable improved purity and yields of synthesized oligonucleotides.
• Carry out purification (anion exchange, reverse phase), analysis (IP/RP, IEX, SEC), and characterization (LCMS, UV, melting temperature) of oligonucleotides and their conjugates.
• Register synthesized oligonucleotides in the database (sequence, lot, 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.

Compensation

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.

Legal Notice

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.