Back to News

Associate Scientist/Senior Associate Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

Building on our founders’ Nobel-prize winning discoveries in RNA interference, Atalanta Therapeutics is developing novel branched siRNA therapeutics to treat severe neurological diseases at the root cause. With two active partnerships with large biopharmaceutical companies plus a robust and growing internal pipeline, Atalanta is poised to make a difference in patients’ lives. Atalanta fosters a culture of integrity, respect, collaboration, opportunity, learning, and fun. We are located in Boston’s vibrant Seaport district near South Station.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The candidate will join a dynamic team responsible for the design and synthesis of oligonucleotides for Atalanta’s drug discovery programs. Successful candidates will have experience with modern laboratory equipment, and spectroscopic analysis, preferably in relation to oligonucleotides, as well as demonstrated ability to work as part of an integrated team on multiple parallel projects. This individual will be responsible for the independent operation and maintenance of instruments to synthesize, purify, and analyze chemically modified oligonucleotides as well as prepare samples for in vitro and in vivo studies. The ideal candidate is personable, organized, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. This role provides the right candidate with the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility over time within Atalanta’s Chemistry function.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and maintain HPLC, and LC-MS for qualitative analysis and purification of synthetic oligonucleotides
• Utilize specialized oligonucleotide synthesizers (e.g., Dr.Oligo, AKTA Oligopilot, Mermade) with oversight to produce high quality oligonucleotides
• Operate high-throughput methods for deprotection and purification of chemically modified oligonucleotides
• Critical analysis and evaluation of data to optimize synthesis yield, purity and formulation of modified oligonucleotides
• Quantitate compounds spectroscopically for in vitro and in vivo experiments
• Supply oligonucleotides for research and drug development programs according to priorities and timelines
• Create and engineer processes to optimize synthesis, deprotection and purification of novel oligonucleotide structures
• Develop quality control mechanisms and monitoring systems to ensure consistent, reliable production of oligonucleotides
• Collaborate with scientists throughout the organization on the discovery and advancement of novel chemistries for enhanced distribution and delivery of oligonucleotides systemically and locally
• Maintain essential pieces of equipment and systems to ensure reliable and consistent operation
• Repair equipment or engage repair services as needed to maintain equipment performance at required levels with minimal down time
• Manage ordering and organization of chemicals and supplies necessary for oligonucleotide synthesis
• Curate and maintain the inventory of synthesized oligonucleotides

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with a minimum of 1 year of academic or professional work experience -OR- a Master’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with a minimum of 0-2 years of academic or professional work experience
• Previous experience in preparation of in vitro and in vivo dosing solutions is desirable
• Experience operating LC-MS and HPLC is preferred
• Automation experience to streamline repetitive tasks is desirable
• Experience using oligonucleotide synthesis equipment is preferred
• Knowledge and interest in chemical synthesis is desirable
• Ability to independently interrogate scientific problems and develop creative solutions
• Supervisory and/or mentorship experience is a plus
• Strong organizational and record keeping skills are essential
• A strong commitment to scientific integrity and laboratory excellence is required

Please submit your CV and Cover Letter to careers@atalantatx.com with the title of the position in the subject line

 

Atalanta is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person’s race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law.