Research Associate II, Oligonucleotide Synthesis
CRISPR Therapeutics
Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Research Associate II to support the synthesis, purification, and conjugation of oligonucleotides for our gene editing and targeted delivery programs. In this role you will run solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis on automated platforms, purify and characterize crude material to research-grade specifications, and prepare small molecule–oligonucleotide and antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates that enable tissue-targeted delivery. This is a bench-intensive position within a fast-moving discovery chemistry group.
Job description
Position Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Research Associate II to support the synthesis, purification, and conjugation of oligonucleotides for our gene editing and targeted delivery programs. In this role you will run solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis on automated platforms, purify and characterize crude material to research-grade specifications, and prepare small molecule–oligonucleotide and antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates that enable tissue-targeted delivery. This is a bench-intensive position within a fast-moving discovery chemistry group.
Responsibilities
Oligonucleotide Synthesis
- Execute phosphoramidite-based synthesis of chemically modified RNA/DNA on automated synthesizers at scales from micromole to millimole
- Incorporate chemically modified building blocks (2′-OMe, 2′-F), phosphorothioate and other backbone modifications, and 5′/3′ functional handles for downstream conjugation
- Perform cleavage from support, base and 2′-silyl deprotection, desalting, and lyophilization using established protocols
- Prepare amidite and reagent solutions, maintain synthesizer uptime through routine maintenance and troubleshooting, and manage consumable and raw material inventory
Purification and Analysis
- Purify crude oligonucleotides by RP-HPLC, IEX-HPLC; pool, desalt, concentrate, and formulate final material to target concentration and buffer
- Assess identity and purity by LC-MS, UPLC, and UV quantification; interpret chromatograms and deconvoluted mass data
Small Molecule and Antibody Conjugation
- Prepare small molecule–oligonucleotide conjugates, such as GalNAc, lipid, and peptide conjugates, and support preparation of antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates using standard bioconjugation chemistries
- Purify conjugates by chromatography and filtration, and assess purity, conjugation efficiency, and drug-to-antibody ratio
- Run small-scale screens of reaction conditions and summarize results for the team
Documentation and Collaboration
- Maintain complete, contemporaneous electronic lab notebook records and accurate sample registration and inventory in the compound and reagent management systems
- Analyze and present data clearly at team and project meetings
- Work in accordance with all EHS requirements, including safe handling of organic solvents and reactive reagents, proper waste disposal, and correct use of fume hoods and personal protective equipment
Requirements
- BS in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related discipline with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience; or MS in a related discipline with 0–2+ years of experience
- Hands-on experience with solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis on an automated synthesizer, including cleavage, deprotection, and workup
- Demonstrated experience with preparative HPLC purification and interpretation of analytical HPLC or LC-MS data
- Practical experience with at least one bioconjugation chemistry, such as NHS ester, maleimide–thiol, or click chemistry, applied to oligonucleotides, peptides, or proteins
- Strong general wet-chemistry experience, including accurate weighing, solution preparation, air- and moisture-sensitive handling, and anhydrous techniques
- Meticulous documentation habits and comfort working in an electronic lab notebook
- Ability to manage multiple parallel experiments and deliver against timelines in a fast-paced environment
Benefits
- Bonus
- Equity
- Health Insurance
Company overview
CRISPR Therapeutics AG is a pioneering Swiss-American biotechnology company founded in 2013 that specializes in developing transformative gene-based medicines using the revolutionary CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing platform. Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland with major R&D operations in Boston, Massachusetts and San Francisco, California, the company was co-founded by Nobel Prize winner Emmanuelle Charpentier and represents one of the first commercial entities to harness CRISPR technology for therapeutic applications. CRISPR Therapeutics achieved a historic milestone in December 2023 with the FDA approval of CASGEVY® (exagamglogene autotemcel), the world's first CRISPR-based therapy for treating sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia. The company maintains a diverse pipeline targeting hemoglobinopathies, oncology, regenerative medicine, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders, and rare genetic conditions. Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Vertex Pharmaceuticals and Bayer, CRISPR Therapeutics continues to advance its innovative platform, employing approximately 400 professionals globally and maintaining a strong financial position with over $1.8 billion in cash and marketable securities as of 2025.