Principal Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry Research

About the Role

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and accomplished chemist / biochemist with a proven track record of success in designing and synthesizing oligonucleotide-based molecules and optimizing them towards the clinical development candidate stage. The candidate will work in a fast-paced environment and play a key role in the discovery of next-generation siRNA-based therapeutics for our three therapeutic areas of interest : neurology, neuroendocrinology, and neuroimmunology.

Your Contributions (include, but are not limited to)

Design, synthesize and characterize novel siRNA oligonucleotides, siRNA libraries, and collaborate with the Bioconjugation team where applicable to generate novel oligo-based Bioconjugates

With a strong lab presence, setup internal siRNA synthesis chemistry capability in collaboration with the Director, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Participate in and / or lead cross-functional discovery projects and project teams

Drive the development and incorporation of novel technologies, methods, oligonucleotide modifications into the Oligonucleotide Chemistry team

Collaborate closely with the broader research team by communicating results, sharing insights, making plans, and setting goals in an open and collaborative way to enable project success

Anticipates potential issues and provides contingencies and resolutions to continuously improve that process

Aid in the evaluation of external partnering opportunities

Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements

PhD (preferred) in chemistry or related field and 7+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and prior managerial / functional management experience

MS / MA degree and 10+ years of similar experience as noted above, OR

BS / BA degree and 12+ years of similar experience

Demonstrated scientific excellence in oligonucleotide / siRNA chemistry or related research, as evidenced by significant patents and / or publications in the field

Demonstrated delivery of clinical candidate siRNA-based molecules

Expert understanding of the drug discovery process for siRNA

Thorough understanding of developability and associated assays

Experience and knowledge in protein bioconjugation and / or targeted delivery technologies is strongly preferred

Overall strong work ethic and willingness to engage in projects across therapeutic areas

Applies in-depth knowledge of own function, business / commercial / scientific expertise to solve critical issues successfully and innovatively

Evaluates key business / scientific challenges and completes complex, ambiguous initiatives having cross-functional impact

Sees broader picture, impact on multiple programs, teams and / or departments

Ability to effectively interact with multiple functions across the organization, and effectively communicate results and strategies to staff and company executives

Strong attention to detail; excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills

Excellent problem solving and analytical thinking skills

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Neurocrine Biosciences is an EEO / Disability / Vets employer.

We are committed to building a workplace of belonging, respect, and empowerment, and we recognize there are a variety of ways to meet our requirements. We are looking for the best candidate for the job and encourage you to apply even if your experience or qualifications don’t line up to exactly what we have outlined in the job description.

The annual base salary we reasonably expect to pay is $128,200.00-$185,900.00. Individual pay decisions depend on various factors, such as primary work location, complexity and responsibility of role, job duties / requirements, and relevant experience and skills. In addition, this position offers an annual bonus with a target of 30% of the earned base salary and eligibility to participate in our equity based long term incentive program. Benefits offered include a retirement savings plan (with company match), paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver / parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

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