Senior Scientist, Small-molecule Process Chemistry

Judo Bio; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus eligibility

Equity

Benefits package

Mobility stipend

Unlimited time off

Company holidays

Recharge break

Job summary

Judo Bio is seeking a Senior Scientist with 3–10+ years in industrial setting, focusing on small-molecule process development to support siRNA programs. You will design, optimize, and scale synthetic routes to manufacture ligands and linkers for kidney-targeted siRNAs, bridging discovery and large-scale manufacturing in a hands-on lab environment.

You will lead DoE-driven optimization, scale processes, and transfer technology to CDMOs while collaborating with Analytical, Formulation, and Supply

Qualifications

• PhD or Master with relevant industry experience as described.
• Deep understanding of synthetic organic chemistry mechanisms, catalysis, and purification techniques.
• Working knowledge of data automation and analytical equipment automation.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• 80% hands-on laboratory work and ability to manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Design scalable, cost-effective synthetic routes for ligands/linkers.
• Scale chemical processes from mg to kg and lead tech transfer to CDMOs.
• Use analytical tools (HPLC/LC-MS/GC) to monitor reactions and impurities.
• Draft batch records, campaign summaries, and regulatory submissions docs.
• Collaborate with Analytical, Formulation Development, and Supply Chain teams.

Skills

Process chemistry

Oligonucleotide conjugation

Analytical troubleshooting

Automation

Lab leadership

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Master’s degree with 5–10 years in pharma

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS

GC

Job description

J udo Bio is a Series A biotechnology company pioneering the delivery of oligonucleotide medicines to the kidney to treat systemic and renal diseases. Our proprietary STRIKE™ (Selectively Targeting RNA Into Kidney) platform leverages the kidney-specific megalin receptor to enable precise, cell-targeted delivery of RNA therapeutics. This innovative approach has the potential to unlock new treatment options for diseases that have historically been difficult to address.

We’re building a collaborative, science-driven organization that values curiosity, thoughtful execution, and the opportunity to tackle ambitious scientific challenges that can make a meaningful difference for patients.

Position Overview

Judo Bio is seeking highly motivated Senior Scientist with 3-10+ years of industry experience focused on small‑molecule process development to support our siRNA programs (discovery through late‑phase). Reporting to the VP of Chemistry Development and CMC, this individual will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and scaling up synthetic routes to manufacture ligands and linkers for our growing portfolio of kidney‑targeted siRNAs. This role will be the critical link between small‑scale discovery chemistry and large‑scale manufacturing, ensuring processes are safe, efficient, and robust. In this hands‑on laboratory‑based role you will drive internal lab experiments and be part of the cross functional team supporting external manufacturing with CDMO partners.

How You’ll Contribute

Route Scouting and Optimization

• Design and evaluate novel, scalable, and cost‑effective synthetic pathways (including purifications) for our ligands and linkers.
• Optimize reaction conditions (yield, purity, throughput, and robustness) using design of experiments (DoE) principles.
• Development/improvement of ligation methods to couple ligands/linkers to oligonucleotides.

Process Scale‑Up and Tech Transfer

• Scale chemical processes from milligrams to kilograms in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.
• Lead technology transfer activities to Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs).

Analytical and Troubleshooting

• Utilize advanced analytical tools (e.g., HPLC, LC‑MS, GC) to monitor reactions and characterize intermediates and final APIs.
• Troubleshoot challenging chemical transformations and purification approaches to manage impurity profiles.

Regulatory and Documentation

• Draft batch records, campaign summaries, and technology transfer reports.
• Author technical sections for regulatory submissions (e.g., IND, NDA, IMPD) ensuring compliance with Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Analytical Chemistry, Formulation Development, and Supply Chain teams.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering with 3-5 years of industrial experience, or a master’s degree with 5-10 years of relevant pharmaceutical industry experience.
• Deep understanding of synthetic organic chemistry mechanisms, catalysis, and modern purification techniques.
• Working knowledge of data automation and analytical equipment automation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, with the curiosity and initiative to find solutions when the answer isn’t immediately known.
• Strong communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong bench skills and willingness to spend approximately 80% of the time working hands‑on in the lab.
• Ability to work independently and manage both strategic priorities and detailed operational activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with oligonucleotide conjugation or synthesis is a plus.
• Familiarity with process safety evaluation tools (e.g., Reaction Calorimetry like RC1/FBRM, thermal hazard screening).

This is a full‑time role designed to be onsite 5 days a week at our Cambridge office.

Occasional travel to contract manufacturing sites, laboratories, and other locations may be required.

Judo Bio is committed to fostering an inclusive hiring process and providing equal employment opportunities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to 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 characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Judo Bio is an E‑Verify employer.

The pay range below represents the anticipated full‑time base salary range for this position at the time of posting. Individual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors, including relevant experience, skills, education, and other job‑related considerations. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for bonus and equity.

Judo Bio offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health and well‑being of our employees. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, health savings accounts, and a 401(k). Eligible employees also enjoy a $100 monthly mobility stipend, transportation benefit, unlimited time off, company paid holidays, and a year‑end company‑wide recharge break.

We believe investing in our people strengthens the impact we can make together.