Organic Chemist​/Platform Chemistry Scientist – DNA-Encoded Libraries

Organic Chemist / Platform Chemistry Scientist – DNA-Encoded Libraries (BH-399861)

Location Cambridge, United States Sector Science & Research Salary $45.00 to $49.50 per hour

Yoh Life Sciences is seeking an Organic Chemist / Platform Chemistry Scientist to support a leading pharmaceutical company’s Encoded Technologies team in Cambridge, MA
.

This is a hands-on laboratory role for a PhD-level scientist with a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry and reaction development
. The scientist will support on-DNA compound synthesis, binder confirmation, and the development and optimization of DNA-compatible reactions used in DNA-encoded library (DEL) technologies.

Location: Cambridge, MA
Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM EST
Pay Rate: $45.00–$49.50/hr
Job Type: Contract
Minimum Education: PhD

The Platform Chemistry Scientist will join an Encoded Technologies chemistry team supporting drug discovery through DNA-encoded library technologies. This position will focus on hands-on organic synthesis, reaction development and optimization, and on-DNA chemistry
.

The ideal candidate is a strong experimental chemist who can independently plan and execute synthetic chemistry experiments, troubleshoot challenging reactions, interpret experimental results, and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary scientific team.

• Synthesize on-DNA compounds to support binder confirmation and drug discovery projects within established timelines.
• Develop, evaluate, and optimize DNA-compatible organic reactions for use in DNA-encoded library production.
• Design and execute synthetic chemistry experiments, including reaction screening and optimization.
• Troubleshoot reaction performance and use experimental data to guide subsequent chemistry.
• Analyze, interpret, document, and clearly communicate experimental results.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory safety, data quality, scientific rigor, and experimental documentation.
• Collaborate closely with scientists across chemistry and other drug discovery functions.
• Effectively manage multiple experiments and priorities while consistently delivering high-quality results.

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a closely related discipline with substantial synthetic organic chemistry research experience
  .
• Strong hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry and small-molecule synthesis
  .
• Demonstrated experience with reaction development, reaction optimization, and troubleshooting
  .
• Ability to independently plan, execute, analyze, and document laboratory experiments.
• Strong understanding of organic reaction mechanisms and synthetic strategy.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality scientific work.

• Experience with on-DNA synthesis or DNA-compatible chemistry
  .
• Experience with DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) or related chemistry platforms.
• Experience developing or adapting synthetic reactions for DNA-compatible or aqueous conditions.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques used to evaluate synthetic chemistry experiments, such as LC-MS, HPLC, and/or NMR
  .
• Experience in medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or small-molecule drug discovery.
• Strong scientific problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and written/verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

This is an opportunity to contribute directly to an innovative chemistry platform supporting early-stage drug discovery. You’ll work hands-on with DNA-encoded library technologies while collaborating with experienced scientists to develop new chemistry, optimize reactions, and advance binder-confirmation efforts.

• Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Met Life Voluntary…