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Principal Associate Scientist, Target Validation for Nucleic Acid

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Cambridge, MA Full Time
POSTED ON 1/28/2026 CLOSED ON 2/20/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Associate Scientist, Target Validation for Nucleic Acid position at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals?

Overview

The Research Department at Alnylam is seeking an experienced Principal Associate Scientist to join an interdisciplinary team dedicated to broaden our oligonucleotide platform and extrahepatic siRNA delivery through in vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, the capacity to multi-task, and the ability to learn and master new techniques in the field of oligonucleotides. We particularly seek someone who is detail-oriented and who will flourish in a goal-driven team environment under tight deadlines.

This position is onsite and will be primarily located at 675 W Kendall St Cambridge MA.

Responsibilities

  • This candidate will engage in investigative and mechanistic research efforts to evaluate RNAi and other oligonucleotide compound activity by applying biochemical and cell/molecular biology assays.
  • Quantify oligonucleotides therapeutics/mRNA/protein levels in cell and tissue models.
  • Willingness to learn and execute new techniques to support in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Design, troubleshoot and interpret experiments.
  • Prepare clearly articulated experimental reports and data presentations for a variety of audiences.

Qualifications

  • BS/MS in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related field with 5-8 years of work experience, preferably in an industrial setting.
  • Proficiency in mammalian cell culture (maintenance, transfection, etc.).
  • Proficiency in molecular biology assays for RNA/DNA/protein quantification (qPCR, dPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunoprecipitations).
  • Prior experience conducting and/or interpreting in vivo rodent studies, including subcutaneous and IV dosing, retro-orbital bleeding, and tissue dissections .
  • Previous experience with oligonucleotide therapeutics (ASOs, siRNAs, etc.) desired.
  • Familiarity with muscle and cardiac pathophysiology and muscle/cardiac in vitro models preferred.
  • Excellent lab technique and ability to work independently.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and excellent communication skills (written and oral) are required.

U.S. Pay Range

$97,300.00 - $137,100.00

The pay range reflects the full-time base salary range we expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. Base pay will be determined based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education. This role is eligible for an annual short-term incentive award (e.g., bonus or sales incentive) and an annual long-term incentive award (e.g., equity).

Alnylam’s robust Total Rewards package is designed to support your overall health and well-being. We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a lifestyle reimbursement program, flexible spending and health savings accounts and a 401(k)with a generous company match. Eligible employees enjoy paid time off, wellness days, holidays, and two company-wide recharge breaks. We also offer generous family resources and leave. Our commitment to your well-being reflects our belief that caring for our people fuels the impact we create together.

Learn more about these and additional benefits offered by Alnylam by visiting the Benefits section of the Careers website: https://www.alnylam.com/careers

About Alnylam

We are the leader in RNAi therapeutics – a revolutionary approach with the potential to transform the lives of people with rare and common diseases. Built on Nobel Prize-winning science, Alnylam has delivered the breakthroughs that made RNAi therapeutics possible and are just at the beginning of what’s possible. Our deep pipeline, late-stage programs, and bold vision reflect our core values: fierce innovation, passion for excellence, purposeful urgency, open culture and commitment to people. We're proud to be a globally recognized top employer, where an authentic, inclusive culture and breakthrough thinking fuel one another.

At Alnylam, we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their sex, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, pregnancy status or related conditions, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital or familial status, political affiliation, age, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law. Alnylam is an E-Verify Employer.

Salary : $97,300 - $137,100

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