Research Scientist I​/II, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Job Description Summary

This position will be located at the Cambridge, MA site and will not have the ability to be located remotely. Please note that this role would not provide relocation and only local candidates will be considered.

Internal

Title:

Research Scientist I or Research Scientist II

Novartis xRNA Therapeutics is seeking a passionate and technically accomplished Research Scientist I/II to join our growing xRNA therapeutics team in Cambridge, MA and work with an enthusiastic team of highly skilled scientists. This position is a hands‑on role, and the successful candidate will have deep knowledge and experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and analysis to advance our xRNA therapeutics. The ideal candidate will work under the supervision of a Principal Scientist and support to grow our internal oligonucleotide synthesis capability.

Core competencies include an ability to function in an interdisciplinary and fast‑paced environment coupled with a proactive and collaborative approach. This position will be based in our Cambridge, MA location.

Multiple positions available.

• Execute solid-phase synthesis of research scale oligonucleotides with various chemical modifications using automated DNA/RNA synthesizers such as Shasta, K&A, and Mermade.
• Perform purification, desalting, and analysis of oligonucleotides using various techniques, including reverse-phase, ion-exchange HPLCs, UPLCs, and LCMS, etc.
• Method development and optimization for improved synthesis, purification and analysis of oligonucleotides and conjugates.
• Prepare and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for synthesis, processing, and purification of therapeutic oligonucleotides to ensure reproducibility.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain critical laboratory equipment such as synthesizers, HPLCs, and LCMS, etc.
• Organize experimental data and maintain a well‑documented electronic notebook (eLN).
• Highly motivated and productive in a fast‑paced environment.

This is a dual posting. The final level & title of the offer role would be determined by the hiring team based on the skills, experience & capabilities required to perform the role at the level the role has been offered (Research Scientist I /Research Scientist II):

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field.
• Research Scientist I Level: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field. At least 1 year of chemistry laboratory experience in academic or industrial setting is preferred.
• Research Scientist II Level: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field. At least 2 years of chemistry laboratory experience in academic or industrial setting.
• Familiarity with automated solid-phase synthesizers and therapeutic oligonucleotide synthesis and downstream processing.
• Proficiency in purifying, analyzing and characterizing oligonucleotides via LC/HRMS, RP-HPLC, AEX-HPLC, SEC-HPLC, and UV‑vis analytics.
• Basic understanding of RNA therapeutics and their role in biology.
• Be a team player prepared to work in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment with a high degree of flexibility and self‑motivation.

The salary for this position is expected to range between:

Research Scientist I $68,800 and $124,000 per year

Research Scientist II $81,200 and $150,800 per year

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

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