Research Associate I​/II, Oligonucleotide Synthesis & Chemistry

Job Description

Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Our RNA medicines platform, PRISM, combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders. Our toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities includes editing, splicing, RNA interference and antisense silencing, providing us with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology.

Our diversified pipeline includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Huntington’s disease, as well as a clinical program in obesity and a preclinical program in NASH/MASH. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible”, we are leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease.

Wave Life Sciences seeks a motivated Research Associate I/II, Oligo Synthesis and Chemistry, to join our team in Lexington, MA. This is an ideal position for an individual with a background in analytical chemistry who thrives in a team-oriented, fast-paced, biotech environment. This candidate will be responsible for fulfilling compound requests to support Discovery-related activities and ensuring sample quality.

• Masters Degree with 0-2 years of industry experience or Bachelor’s Degree with 2-4 years of industry experience
• Analytical chemistry background preferred

• Enable timely fulfillment of compound requests while ensuring their accuracy and quality for in vitro/vivo assays
• Analysis of oligonucleotides by LC-MS and UHPLC for identification and purity assessment
• Operation of Hamilton Star liquid handler for high throughput sample preparation in 96‑well assay plates
• Perform QC assays such as UV, pH, osmolality, and bacterial endotoxin
• Maintain an accurate and traceable oligonucleotide inventory
• Mentor co‑ops on laboratory instrumentation and workflows
• Support general laboratory instrument maintenance and troubleshooting
• Communicate effectively with team members and requestors to enable screening efforts for multiple projects
• Document experimental results in ELN and register relevant sample data
• Interact with Data Science/IT to continually advance the data management systems as needed

• Meticulous attention to detail and data integrity
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with ability to multitask
• Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills
• Expertise with common laboratory operations, including accurate pipetting, dilution, and UV measurement
• Previous experience with UHPLC and LC‑MS operation and analysis strongly preferred
• Previous compound formulation experience strongly preferred
• Understanding of oligonucleotide synthesis, formulation, and characterization preferred

The annual base salary range for this position is $72,000 - $92,000.

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the annual base salary pay range for this position at the time of posting. Actual annual base salary will vary based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, qualifications, position criticality, and internal equity. This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus and discretionary stock‑based long‑term incentives.

In addition to compensation, Wave offers a comprehensive and competitive range of benefits designed to support our employees’ and their families physical and financial health and overall well‑being. These include, but are not limited to, company‑sponsored medical, dental, vision, life, long and short‑term disability insurances, generous paid time off (including a week‑long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), 401K participation with matching contributions, and Employee Stock Purchase Program.

Wave Life Sciences provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race,…