Principal Scientist Oligonucleotide Chemistry

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Merck Group seeks a Principal Scientist in Oligonucleotide Chemistry in Billerica, MA, onsite, with 7+ years in industry oligonucleotide synthesis after a PhD (or 10+ years MS). You will plan and execute solid-phase synthesis for SAR campaigns on ASO and siRNA platforms, master nucleoside and conjugation chemistry, and lead purification and analytical workflows (LC, MS, NMR). The role requires cross functional collaboration with internal teams and CROs, milestone tracking, and clear progress reporting. Travel about 10%; no work sponsorship; US work eligibility required. To apply, tailor your resume to leadership in synthesis, purification, and drug discovery impact, and highlight relevant publications or patents.

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United As One for Patients, our purpose in Healthcare is to help create, improve and prolong lives. We develop medicines, intelligent devices and innovative technologies in therapeutic areas such as Oncology, Neurology and Fertility. Our teams work together across 6 continents with passion and relentless curiosity in order to help patients at every stage of life. Joining our Healthcare team is becoming part of a diverse, inclusive and flexible working culture, presenting great opportunities for personal development and career advancement across the globe.

This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization. External applicants must be eligible to work in the US. 

Location: 

The Principal Scientist Oligonucleotide Chemistry is an onsite position in Billerica, MA.  There will be approximately 10% domestic and international travel to meet business needs. 

Your Role:

• Plan and execute solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis for SAR campaigns on several projects.
• Demonstrates understanding of the chemistry of nucleosides, nucleotides, and oligonucleotides as applied to siRNA, ASO and other oligonucleotide modalities.
• Design and implement scientific and synthesis strategies relating to the research and development of antisense and other synthetic oligonucleotide therapeutics.
• Strong laboratory skills in synthesis, purification, and characterization of complex siRNAs/ASO’s, expertise in state-of-the-art analytical techniques such as LC, MS, NMR.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of conjugation chemistry and techniques aimed at producing novel small molecule, peptides and antibody conjugates.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and present data are a prerequisite current with scientific literature and understanding of the state of the art in oligonucleotide chemistry, purification, and screening strategies.
• Work with both internal chemistry team and external CRO’s to generate innovative solutions to synthetic and drug design challenges within the context of oligonucleotide drug discovery projects.
• Track progress against project timelines, generate regular status updates, and communicate progress and issues to management.

Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in Oligonucleotide Chemistry and relevant experience in a drug discovery environment with 7+ years of oligonucleotide synthesis experience in industry.
• Master of Science in Chemistry/Medicinal Chemistry with 10+ years of experience in oligonucleotide synthesis experience in industry.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent project/time management and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including making effective and compelling presentations in both large and small groups and communicating complex scientific and nonscientific issues to program teams.
• Strong people skills and the ability to thrive in a team and goal driven environment.
• Experience designing, synthesizing and purifying oligonucleotides to support research and scale up studies.
• Proven track record of scientific contributions in oligonucleotide and conjugates research as evidenced by publications/presentations/patent applications and/or the identification of preclinical development candidates.

Pay range for this position: $137,700 - $206,600 

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here. 

What we offer: We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace. Join us in building a culture of inclusion and belonging that impacts millions and empowers everyone to work their magic and champion human progress!

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