Oligo Discovery Process Chemistry Principal Scientist

Position Summary

The successful candidate will join GSK's oligonucleotide synthesis lab as a process discovery chemist, bridging early discovery-stage chemistry with the process rigor needed to reliably deliver in vivo study material. This is a discovery lab that produces rodent- and NHP-scale API0 using an ÄKTA Oligosynt synthesizer, the focus is on developing and troubleshooting solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis (SPOS) routes at milligram-to-gram scale, building out method development and chromatography/purification strategies, and ensuring those routes translate cleanly as programs move toward larger-scale synthesis. Areas of focus include ASOs, siRNA, SSO, and RNA editors, spanning routine and next-generation amidite chemistries, conjugates, and purification method development.

Responsibilities

• Lead process discovery for oligonucleotide therapeutics, developing and troubleshooting SPOS routes from milligram to gram scale for ASOs, siRNA, SSO, and RNA editors with routine and next-generation amidite chemistries.
• Generate in vivo study material at rodent and NHP scale using an ÄKTA Oligosynt synthesizer, ensuring synthesis and purification strategies translate cleanly from discovery into larger-scale production.
• Develop and optimize chromatography and purification strategies (e.g., IEX, RP, AEX) that scale from milligram discovery quantities through gram-scale campaigns.
• Perform hands-on method development, establish oligo synthesis and purification workflows, and draft SOPs that bridge discovery chemistry and process/scale-up needs.
• Serve as the oligo synthesis and process discovery SME for the team, representing process chemistry in various cross-matrix meetings.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for synthesis, processing, and purification to ensure high-quality, reproducible in vivo-grade material.
• Partner with the oligo analytical and conjugate chemistry teams to ensure accountability and excellence in oligonucleotide and conjugate synthesis.
• Collaborate and communicate across discovery, process, and analytical teams to build robust, scalable workflows and deliver on portfolio endpoints.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry, chemical biology, or a related field, with 2–4+ years of industry experience in oligonucleotide process chemistry, process discovery, or related synthesis/process roles.
• Hands-on experience with solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis (SPOS) at milligram-to-gram scale, including method development, chromatography, and purification strategies that support larger-scale synthesis.
• General familiarity with mid-scale synthesizers, such as ÄKTA Oligosynt and Mermade12, ÄKTA Avant and Pure purification systems with Unicorn software, and LC/HRMS, UPLC, LC/MS analytics.
• Expertise in oligonucleotide synthesis (SPOS) and biological familiarity with RNA therapeutics (e.g. ASO, siRNA, SSO, RNA Editors), with the ability to generate in vivo rodent- and NHP-scale API0.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum PhD with 4+ years of experience in oligonucleotide process chemistry, process discovery, oligo chemistry, or related fields.
• Direct experience generating in vivo study material (rodent and/or NHP scale) in a discovery or process development environment.
• Experience translating discovery-stage synthesis routes into larger-scale synthesis and purification strategies.
• Prior experience with scientific and professional mentorship and project management.
• Team-focused with strong initiative and ability to troubleshoot challenges and implement new solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with a team are required.
• Experience with oligonucleotide conjugation chemistries is desirable but not required.
• Sense of urgency, flexibility, independence and accountability.
• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels both inside and outside of the organization.
• Maintain a high level of integrity while balancing multiple priorities and responsibilities.
• Must be a committed team player prepared to work in and embrace a team-based culture.

Location and Working Arrangement

This position is full-time and on-site in the United States. Specific site location will be shared during the application process. Candidates must be willing to work in a laboratory environment.