Principal Scientist, RNA Synthesis Process Sciences

Principal Scientist, RNA Synthesis Process Sciences

Location:

Cambridge, MA, USA.

The Principal Scientist, RNA Synthesis Process Sciences will collaborate with research and manufacturing teams to define early process conditions and scale‑down process development. This role combines deep scientific expertise with enabling technologies and strong cross‑functional partnerships to deliver transformative innovation across the pipeline. The scientist will drive RNA drug substance synthesis and circularization strategies, influence cross‑functional decisions, and deliver high‑impact outcomes for a diverse portfolio.

Responsibilities include leading hands‑on experimental execution from research concepts to manufacturing implementation, and developing RNA synthesis processes that improve yield, quality, and robustness.

• Lead RNA synthesis process research for drug substance programs across a portfolio that may include circular RNA and mRNA, spanning preclinical to early‑stage development.
• Provide strategic oversight of reaction design, process development, and manufacturability, and contribute hands‑on scientific input to resolve critical technical challenges.
• Apply high‑throughput, data‑driven approaches to assess and mitigate risks, defining mitigation strategies and making critical scientific recommendations at key program milestones.
• Represent drug substance development strategies in cross‑functional CMC teams, ensuring alignment across research, analytical development, engineering, regulatory affairs, and supply chain.

• Set clear priorities and objectives for Synthesis Process Sciences in alignment with portfolio goals and RNA PD’s broader organizational strategy.
• Mentor and develop scientists across RNA SPS, contributing to a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learning.
• Foster an inclusive, high‑performance team environment built on psychological safety, accountability, and collaboration.

• Propose and lead departmental initiatives that improve scientific workflows, sustainability practices, and operational efficiency.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with external academic institutions and industry partners to accelerate scientific advancement.
• Represent capabilities at internal reviews, scientific conferences, and through peer‑reviewed publications.

• Serve as a key scientific voice in cross‑functional CMC teams and broader enterprise forums.
• Partner with functional areas—including research, analytical development, engineering, and drug product development—to drive strategic alignment across the portfolio.
• Collaborate with organization leadership to drive strategic alignment across the portfolio.

• Degree in Bio/Chemical Engineering, Bio/Chemistry, or related field with MS and 8+ years of experience, or PhD with 3+ years of experience in related scientific disciplines.
• Expertise with in‑vitro transcription, enzymatic reactions, and innovative reaction unit‑operations.
• Expertise in high‑throughput experimentation and automation of upstream unit operations.
• Working knowledge of statistical design of experiments (DoE) and analysis of multivariate data.
• Experience with performing and interpreting process analytics and biophysical characterization techniques such as HPLC, CE, NGS, and gel electrophoresis.
• Experience working with CROs managing DNA supply and supporting DNA process troubleshooting as it relates to RNA production.
• Knowledge of cGMP, ICH, regulatory guidelines, and QbD principles as they apply to risk management and clinical manufacturing.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to lead complex projects independently and influence decisions across matrixed teams and governance forums.
• Prior experience managing, mentoring, or developing scientists in an industrial setting.
• Demonstrated background of establishing early process definitions in preclinical to clinical…