Research Associate​/Senior Research Associate – Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Employment Type: Full-time

OliX Pharmaceuticals develops next-generation RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics. Our San Diego team at OliX US supports the discovery and development of innovative nucleic acid-based medicines.

We are seeking a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate to support the synthesis, purification, analytical characterization, and conjugation of chemically modified oligonucleotides for research and preclinical programs.

Responsibilities and title will reflect the candidate’s experience and demonstrated technical capabilities. Research Associates will receive hands‑on training and scientific guidance. Senior Research Associates will independently execute assigned workflows, troubleshoot technical issues, contribute to method improvements, and help train junior colleagues.

• Perform solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, cleavage, deprotection, purification, desalting, and sample processing.
• Conduct analytical characterization using UHPLC, LC–MS, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and related techniques.
• Perform oligonucleotide purification using preparative HPLC and medium-pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC).
• Support oligonucleotide conjugation and downstream processing, including buffer exchange, concentration, and ultrafiltration/TFF, as needed.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, solutions, and materials for laboratory experiments.
• Operate, clean, and maintain laboratory instruments; troubleshoot technical issues appropriate to experience level.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, sample tracking, and data summaries.
• Assist with preparing and revising SOPs, laboratory methods, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with chemistry and biology teams to meet material requirements and project timelines.
• Maintain chemical, consumable, and sample inventories and follow established laboratory safety procedures.

• Independently plan and execute assigned experiments and workflows in consultation with scientists.
• Troubleshoot synthesis, purification, analytical, and instrumentation issues.
• Design and evaluate method improvements to increase product quality, yield, reproducibility, and throughput.
• Interpret experimental results, recommend next steps, and communicate findings to the team.
• Draft SOPs and technical summaries and provide hands‑on training to junior colleagues.

Required — All Candidates

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience and a foundation in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate experimental records.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to organize assigned work and collaborate effectively in a laboratory team.

• Typically 0–2 years of relevant laboratory experience; academic research, internships, or industry experience may qualify.
• Demonstrated laboratory aptitude and willingness to learn new techniques and instrumentation.
• Ability to follow established procedures and troubleshoot basic issues with guidance.

Direct oligonucleotide industry experience is preferred but not required. Training will be provided to qualified candidates.

• Typically 3–5 years of relevant laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute relevant synthesis, purification, or analytical workflows.
• Practical experience operating and troubleshooting chromatography systems or other relevant laboratory instruments.
• Ability to…