Senior Scientist; Oligonucleotide Conjugation

Senior Scientist (Oligonucleotide Conjugation)

What you will do

Let’s do this. Let’s change the world. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated conjugation chemist to expand the pre‑clinical oligonucleotide conjugation capabilities of the Genetic Medicines team, with a focus on protein‑oligonucleotide, small molecule‑oligonucleotide, and peptide‑oligonucleotide conjugates. This role supports Amgen’s pipeline of siRNA‑based therapeutics.

• Design, synthesize, purify and analytically characterize oligonucleotide conjugates – including optimizing synthesis/conjugation/purification protocols.
• Drive the technical execution of conjugation projects from start to finish and perform hands‑on conjugate synthesis (developing and optimizing conjugation strategies and purification methods).
• Serve as an oligonucleotide conjugation subject‑matter expert (SME) in cross‑functional team meetings.
• Train as needed, collaborate with the Genetic Medicines group and cross‑functional teams to meet project objectives and timelines.
• Prepare research results for presentations, patent applications, and scientific publications.

The candidate should be motivated to expand their skillset, have a flexible mindset, and be willing to learn oligonucleotide chemistry. Prepare oligonucleotides as needed. Collaborate with biology and analytical teams to conduct biophysical/biochemical assays (e.g. ELISA, SPR, FRET, BLI, DSF, DLS) to evaluate target binding, stability, and additional oligonucleotide conjugate properties. Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks and remain compliant on safety & required training.

The successful candidate will bring strong expertise in oligonucleotide conjugation chemistry and will work at the interface of molecular design, analytical characterization, and platform innovation. This scientist will collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to develop robust conjugation technologies that improve therapeutic performance, stability, manufacturability, and translational potential. The passionate and dedicated professional we seek is a motivated research scientist with these qualifications.

• Doctorate degree
• OR Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline and 2 years of industry experience in biotech/pharma with specific experience in oligonucleotide conjugation – e.g. designing, synthesizing, and characterizing oligo conjugates of small molecules, linkers, peptides, proteins, etc.
• OR Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline and 4 years of experience in biotech/pharma with specific experience in oligonucleotide conjugation – e.g. designing, synthesizing, and characterizing oligo conjugates of small molecules, linkers, peptides, proteins, etc.

• Expertise in conjugation chemistries and site‑specific bioconjugation techniques, along with familiarity with RNA therapeutic modalities (ASO, siRNA, etc.).
• Proficiency in preparative and analytical chromatography techniques (IEX, RP‑HPLC, SEC, LC‑MS) for oligonucleotides, and conjugates thereof, is required.
• Experience with automated oligonucleotide synthesizers and associated processes (on‑resin conjugation, cleavage & deprotection, desalting, formulation) is a plus.
• Must demonstrate ability to conduct independent research and have strong communication/teamwork skills in a dynamic environment.

The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.

In addition to the base salary, Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan, based on eligibility, comprising health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:

• A comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision…