Associate Chemist - Oligonucleotide Chemistry

About the position

The Associate Chemist position at Lilly focuses on oligonucleotide chemistry, contributing to the discovery and development of RNA-based clinical candidates. The role involves synthesizing, purifying, and analyzing modified oligonucleotides and small molecules, while collaborating with a diverse team to drive preclinical drug discovery efforts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemistry and a passion for innovative drug discovery.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize, purify, and analyze highly modified oligonucleotides/conjugates and small molecules to drive projects forward efficiently.
• Prioritize and lead in proactive safety practices as a part of an effective laboratory culture.
• Independently problem-solve in the laboratory setting to overcome synthetic challenges and improve upon existing workflows.
• Maintain a productive laboratory workspace including the operation and maintenance of an oligonucleotide synthesizer and/or other scientific equipment.
• Collaborate with chemists and scientists from other fields in a team environment focused on experimental execution and delivering on shared project goals.
• Interpret and communicate structure-activity relationships and generate new oligonucleotide-based designs.
• Search relevant chemical and scientific literature and implement new strategies and techniques accordingly.
• Accurately document experimental procedures and communicate results via presentations and written reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field.
• At least 1-2 years of experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry is highly preferred.
• Experience in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis using and trouble-shooting automated solid-phase synthesizers and optimizing synthetic protocols and reaction schemas.
• Experience in small molecule organic synthesis including design of synthetic strategies, reaction optimization, work-up/purification techniques, and characterization (NMR, MS, etc.).
• Experience in the optimization of purification protocols for oligonucleotides.
• Knowledge or experience in the areas of bioconjugation chemistry as applied to peptides or oligonucleotides.
• Experience with analytical and physiochemical characterization of novel biomaterials (e.g., mass spectrometry, separation techniques and other biophysical/biochemical techniques).
• Excellent record keeping and communication skills.
• Confident, execution-focused, and team oriented with a desire to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment.