Scientist, RNA Synthesis

Scientist, RNA Synthesis Overview Alnylam is the world’s leading RNA interference (RNAi) company. Founded in 2002, Alnylam was built upon a bold vision of turning scientific possibility into reality by harnessing the power of RNAi for human health as an innovative new class of medicines. We are a growing biopharmaceutical company with three approved medicines and a robust pipeline of investigational medicines focused in four strategic therapeutic areas: genetic medicines, cardio-metabolic diseases, infectious diseases, and central nervous system (CNS) and ocular diseases, including several in late-stage development. Headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., Alnylam employs over 1,500 people in 19 countries and is rapidly growing globally, with additional offices in Norton, Mass., Maidenhead, U.K., Zug, Switzerland, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Tokyo, Japan. Alnylam is proud to have been recognized as one of The Boston Globe’s Top Places to Work six years in a row (2015-2020), a Great Place to Work in the U.K. and Switzerland two years in a row (2019-2020) and a Science Magazine’s Top Employer two years in a row (2019-2020). Please visit www.alnylam.com for more information. The RNAi Discovery group at Alnylam is seeking a passionate, creative scientist to join our highly interdisciplinary team focused on the advancement of our RNAi Platform and Lead Development efforts through novel approaches towards a deeper mechanistic/structural understanding of RNAi. The successful candidate will have a strong background in oligonucleotide chemistry/biochemistry through in-depth hands-on experience in the synthesis and chemical/biophysical characterization of oligonucleotides as well as their potential biological applications. Summary of Key Responsibilities - Design and execute the automated synthesis, purification, and analysis of siRNAs with various chemistries and scales using state-of-the-art instrumentation platforms - Improve and/or develop new processes to expand upon current capabilities - Working closely with internal platform teams, assess the impact of novel chemical modifications on potency and physicochemical properties of siRNAs - Work across teams on siRNA design and SAR (structure-activity-relationship) to support programs as they move forward to the clinic - Troubleshoot and perform routine maintenance on critical instrumentation such as automated synthesis platforms, LC-MS, HPLC, and liquid handling robots - Work closely with members across various sub teams within research and early development - Analyze, organize, and present data at internal and external meetings - Enable and support team to meet desired lab throughput via the management of day-to-day operations and organization, as well as manage one or more direct reports Qualifications - Masters or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 5 years post-degree experience in an industrial setting - Prior experience in the design and solid-phase synthesis of RNA/DNA and chemically modified oligonucleotides is required - Strong laboratory skills and experience with instrumentation such as HPLC, LC-MS, liquid handling, etc. with the ability to analyze, interpret, and clearly present data. - The ability to apply his/her knowledge to a new area of study as well as to thrive in a highly interdisciplinary team environment with excellent oral and written communication skills - Prior managerial experience is a plus - Great team-player with a high degree of flexibility and motivation in a fast-paced work environment Alnylam Pharmaceuticals is an EEO employer committed to an exciting, diverse, and enriching work environment.