Scientist, RNA Conjugation & Synthesis

The RNAi Discovery group at Alnylam is seeking a passionate, creative scientist to join our highly interdisciplinary team focused on the advancement of our RNAi Platform and Lead Development efforts through novel approaches towards a deeper mechanistic/structural understanding of RNAi. The successful candidate will have a strong background in oligonucleotide chemistry/biochemistry through in-depth hands-on experience in the synthesis and chemical/biophysical characterization of oligonucleotides as well as their potential biological applications.

This position is onsite and will be primarily located in Cambridge, MA.

Key Responsibilities

• Conjugate novel ligands, including small molecules, peptides, and proteins, to oligonucleotides for delivery.
• Help to oversee and improve purification of oligonucleotides using various chromatography techniques.
• Collaborate with biology and chemistry colleagues to identify priority ligand-receptor pairs and develop targeting strategies.
• Design and execute the automated synthesis, purification, and analysis of siRNAs with various chemistries and scales using state-of-the-art instrumentation platforms.
• Improve and/or develop new processes to expand upon current capabilities.
• Troubleshoot and perform routine maintenance on critical instrumentation such as automated synthesis platforms, HPLC, and liquid handling robots.
• Work closely with members across various sub teams within RNAi discovery.
• Analyze, organize, and present data at internal meetings.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 0-3 years post-degree experience in an industrial or academic setting.
• Experience in conjugation/bioconjugation chemistry.Solid-phase synthesis techniques with oligonucleotides or peptides is desired.
• Expertise in chromatography purification techniques and troubleshooting.
• Strong laboratory skills and experience with analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, LC-MS, etc. with the ability to analyze, interpret, and clearly present data.
• The ability to apply his/her knowledge to a new area of study as well as to thrive in a highly interdisciplinary team environment with excellent oral and written communication skills.

High degree of flexibility and motivation in a fast-paced work environment.

About Alnylam:Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: ALNY) has led the translation of RNA interference (RNAi) into a whole new class of innovative medicines with the potential to transform the lives of people afflicted with rare and more prevalent diseases. Based on Nobel Prize-winning science, RNAi therapeutics represent a powerful, clinically validated approach to treating diseases at their genetic source by "interfering" with mRNA that cause or contribute to disease. Since our founding in 2002, Alnylam has led the RNAi Revolution and continues to turn scientific possibility into reality.

Our culture:Our people-first culture is guided by our core values: fiercely innovative, open culture, purposeful urgency, passion for excellence, and commitment to people, and these values influence how we work and the business decisions we make. Thanks to feedback from our employees over the years, we've been fortunate to be named a top employer around the world. Alnylam is extremely proud to have been recognized as the #1 Large Employer by Boston Globe Top Places to Work in 2023 for the third consecutive year, one of Science Magazine's Top Biopharma Employers, one of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2024 by Newsweek, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and UK - among others.

At Alnylam, we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. We are dedicated to building an environment where employees can feel that they belong, can bring their authentic selves to work, and achieve to their full potential. By empowering employees to embrace their unique differences at work, our business grows stronger with advanced and original thinking, allowing us to bring groundbreaking medicines to patients. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ethnicity, marital status, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristics prohibited by law.