Oligo Discovery Biology Principal Scientist

Business Introduction

At GSK, we have bold ambitions for patients, aiming to positively impact the health of 2.5 billion people by the end of the decade. Our R&D focuses on discovering and delivering vaccines and medicines, combining our understanding of the immune system with cutting‑edge technology to transform people’s lives. GSK fosters a culture ambitious for patients, accountable for impact, and committed to doing the right thing, making sure that we focus our efforts on accelerating significant assets that meet patients’ needs and have the highest probability of success.

We’re uniting science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together.

GSK is seeking a highly motivated, flexible and independent Principal Scientist to join the Oligo Discovery Biology Team. This team is responsible for the in‑vitro based screening of oligos in support of portfolio and platform projects. This individual will establish, validate, and execute a variety of cell‑based assays to help evaluate various oligo modalities such as siRNA, SSO’s and ADAR editing oligos.

You will work closely with discovery scientists, automation engineers, and data analysts. We value hands‑on problem solvers who communicate clearly, learn quickly, and take ownership to make measurable impact.

• Independently design and execute cell and molecular biology‑based experiments evaluating oligonucleotide activity and specificity in support of portfolio and platform projects
• Establish new, robust and reproducible cell based assays using both immortalized and primary cells as required
• Analyze and present experimental data, and clear summaries with recommended next steps to broader GSK teams
• Lead and participate in discussions with cross‑functional teams to support lead discovery
• Mentor and coach early‑career scientists, promote good lab practices, and support high‑quality experimental records

• MS with 8+ years or BS with 11+ years of experience in molecular or cell biology or related field, including experience with various cell types/systems such as CNS, Liver, Lung, Kidney and Adipose
• Experience in cell and molecular based assay development, including extensive RNA isolation and qPCR experience
• Experience with oligonucleotide biology, including in‑vitro testing of antisense oligos (ASOs), siRNA, splice‑switching oligos (SSOs) or oligos for RNA editing

• Experience with protein evaluation techniques such as Western blots and ELISA
• Experience with high‑throughput, cell‑based screening assays for oligonucleotide therapeutics (siRNA, ASO, SSO, or RNA editing oligos)
• Experience with adipose cells and complex cell models
• Track record of method transfer to contract research organizations or external collaborators
• Team oriented and adaptable:
  Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to contribute to various team efforts and adapt with evolving project needs and priorities
• Demonstrated leadership in cross‑functional programs and mentoring scientists
• Contributions to peer‑reviewed publications, patents, or presentations in oligonucleotide or RNA biology
• Sense of urgency, flexibility, independence, and accountability
• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels inside and outside the organization
• Maintain a high level of integrity while balancing multiple priorities and responsibilities
• Committed team player prepared to work in and embrace a team‑based culture
• Independent individual with strong initiative to stay current with scientific literature and industry trends

Annual base salary ranges from $115,500 to $192,500 based on location (Cambridge MA, Waltham MA, Rockville MD, or San Francisco CA). In addition, this position offers an annual bonus and eligibility to participate in the company’s share‑based long‑term incentive program. Benefits include health care and other insurance, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, paid caregiver/parental leave, and medical leave.

GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.