Senior Scientist I-II, Conjugation

ADARx Pharmaceuticals Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

ADARx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in San Diego seeks a Senior Scientist I to join the Conjugation-Discovery Chemistry Department. You will design, synthesize, purify, and analyze oligonucleotide-conjugates on antibodies and other modalities to advance RNA-targeted drug discovery.

This role requires hands-on work and cross-functional collaboration to drive programs toward pre-clinical development. PhD in Chemistry and 3–5 years bioconjugation experience are required, with strong data communication and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related discipline.
• 3–5 years bioconjugation industrial experience.
• Ability to manage project timelines with stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and proactive attitude.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for cross-functional and senior management teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, purify and analyze oligonucleotide-conjugates on antibodies and other modalities.
• Evaluate SAR on conjugates and drive programs with cross-functional teams.
• Track progress against timelines and communicate updates to the team.
• Maintain lab notebooks and batch records; carry out assigned lab functions accurately.
• Collaborate with partners to advance discovery research to pre-clinical development.
• Prepare research reports and presentations for internal and external audiences.

Skills

Bioconjugation

Project management

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Analytical methods

Microsoft Office

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

RP-HPLC

FPLC

SEC

IEX

MS Office

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual to join our Conjugation-Discovery Chemistry Department as a Senior Scientist I and work as part of a team to drive success. Ideal candidates will be self-motivated, independent, committed to the generation of high-quality data within a fast-paced and innovative research team. The Senior Scientist I will support ongoing RNA-based drug discovery projects in several therapeutic areas.

• Design, synthesis, purification and analysis of oligonucleotide-conjugates on antibodies and other modalities. Develop and optimize conjugation protocols using novel chemistries and technologies for target drug delivery.
• Evaluate SAR on the conjugates and drive the program by collaborating cross-functionally with the teams.
• Track progress against project timelines, generate regular status updates, and communicate progress to the team.
• Carry out assigned laboratory functions applying knowledge and skill in an accurate, timely manner.
• Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with critical collaborative partners throughout the company to advance discovery research activities to pre-clinical development.
• Contribute to the preparation of research reports and presentations for internal project teams, leadership team, and external audience.
• Manage and maintain equipment, reagents and dedicated laboratory environment needed to carry out assignments.
• Maintain updated and well-organized lab notebooks and batch records.
• Execute daily laboratory operations with an approach designed to minimize risks and hazard waste streams.
• Maintain all appropriate corporate standards for facility safety and hazardous material management.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Characteristics:

Reasonable accommodation(s) may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

On-Site Protocol:

Physical presence at the ADARx Pharmaceuticals worksite is a necessary job function of this role, which the Company deems critical to collaboration, innovation, productivity, employee well-being and engagement, and it enhances the Company culture.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, or related scientific discipline
• 3-5 years bioconjugation-related industrial experience.
• Understanding of project timelines and deliverables and plans/coordinate project work accordingly with departmental, functional, and external stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude towards exploring new approaches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and effective presentation of complex scientific data to cross-functional and senior management teams are essential for this role.
• In-depth knowledge of modern bioconjugation methods on antibodies (ADC, AOC), proteins, peptides, and other biomolecules.
• Hands-on experience in the analytical characterization of the conjugates with strong analytical mindset. Proficiency in purification techniques such as RP-HPLC, FPLC, SEC, and IEX.
• Proficiency working with Microsoft Office Suite Products.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with RNA/oligonucleotide therapeutics is preferred but not essential.
• A track-record of impacting drug discovery programs through driving projects to key decision points.
• In-depth knowledge of modern organic synthetic methods, purification and analytical techniques as well as medicinal chemistry.

Required Key Attributes:

• Positive attitude and high personal and ethical standards. A strong team player with a passion for science and drug discovery.
• Must be able to work independently as well in cross-functional team settings with supervision as needed.
• Adaptable / Flexible - willing and able to adjust to multiple demands and shifting priorities as well as an ability to meet day-to-day challenges with confidence and professionalism.
• Self-motivated with excellent interpersonal, organizational and communication skills with the ability to take a hands‑on approach to work effectively in a dynamic and collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Compensation:

• This is a full-time position, Monday-Friday, occasional overtime.
• Pay is commensurate with experience.
• Equity-based compensation
• Performance-based bonuses
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Flexible Spending Account
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick, Jury Duty, Bereavement

Work Authorization:

• United States (Required)
• As a condition of employment, you must successfully complete all post-offer, pre-employment requirements, including but not limited to a background check.

Company Overview:

ADARx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., (the “Company” or “ADARx”) located in San Diego, is a clinical stage biotechnology company committed to turning cutting-edge science into life‑saving therapeutics. ADARx has developed proprietary RNA targeting platforms and technology for silencing or editing target mRNA. ADARx has a growing pipeline of RNA targeting therapeutics for treating diseases across a range of therapeutic areas including genetic, cardiometabolic, complement‑mediated diseases and central nervous system.

ADARx currently has multiple active programs in development with the lead candidate in the clinic. We are well‑financed by a syndicate of renowned VC firms.

ADARx Pharmaceuticals is an EEO employer committed to an exciting, diverse, and enriching work environment. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Disclosure Statement:

• The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.
• Any data processed in connection with role applications will be treated in accordance with applicable data privacy policies and regulations.
• The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual target bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, type and length of experience within the industry, and other job‑related factors permitted by law.
• Total Compensation includes base salary; benefits: medical, vision, and dental insurance; life insurance; 401(k) matching program; paid time off; paid holidays; Employee Assistance Program; and other employee benefits. This role may also be eligible for short‑term or long‑term incentive compensation, including but not limited to cash bonuses.
• Following a conditional offer of employment, satisfactory completion of a background check (including criminal records check) is required prior to beginning employment. Any offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current NAI employee who was conditionally offered the position.