Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Job Description

Job Description

Korro is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a new class of genetic medicines for both rare and highly prevalent diseases using its proprietary RNA editing platform. Korro is generating a portfolio of differentiated programs that are designed to harness the body’s natural RNA editing process to effect a precise yet transient single base edit. By editing RNA instead of DNA, Korro is expanding the reach of genetic medicines by delivering additional precision and tunability, which has the potential for increased specificity and improved long-term tolerability. Using an oligonucleotide-based approach, Korro expects to bring its medicines to patients by leveraging its proprietary platform with precedented delivery modalities, manufacturing know-how, and established regulatory pathways of approved oligonucleotide drugs. Korro’s lead program is for Urea Cycle Disorders. Korro is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. For more information, visit korrobio.com.  

We are collaborative and united by a common mission. We are building a company with extraordinary people with an audacious vision to create transformative genetic medicines for prevalent diseases. Our values - Rewrite the future, On the Cutting Edge, Better Together, Dynamically Different, Kindness and Integrity form the fabric of the organization. They are reinforced daily and serve as key dimensions in the hiring process to help us ensure that Korro is a magnet for outstanding talent and a great place to work. Join us as we redefine what's possible in genetic medicine and work to make a lasting impact on human health. 

Position Summary

Korro Bio is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Research Associate to join our Oligonucleotide Chemistry team. The successful candidate will synthesize, purify, and characterize chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates on automated platforms, supplying oligonucleotides for screening across Korro’s discovery programs. This is a hands-on, lab-based role suited to someone with practical oligonucleotide synthesis experience who takes ownership of instrument operation and maintenance, keeps meticulous records, and communicates results clearly to the team and cross-functionally. This position reports to Scientist II and is based on-site in Cambridge, MA.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute solid-phase synthesis, purification, and downstream processing of chemically modified oligonucleotides and oligonucleotides conjugates at different scales using modern automated oligo synthesis platforms
• Operate, maintain & troubleshoot equipment for oligonucleotide synthesis (Mermade 12 and 192), purification, desalting and lyophilization
• Ability to cross-train with other synthesis scales and instrumentation
• Maintain inventory of chemicals and amidites for oligonucleotide synthesis
• Perform in-process and final analytics of oligonucleotide samples as needed
• Track progress, analyze, organize, and present data to team and cross-functionally
• Maintain a well-documented electronic laboratory notebook
• Actively participate in training activities and provide training to others as needed
• Author and review SOPs and technical reports 

Required Qualifications

• BS/MS with 1+ years experience in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field  
• Hands-on experience in the synthesis, purification, and analysis of oligonucleotides 
• Experience with high throughput synthesizers such as Mermade 192 is a plus
• Strong laboratory skills and experience in handling, troubleshooting and routine maintenance of lab equipment including automated synthesis platforms, HPLC and LC-MS etc. 
• High degree of flexibility and self-motivation in a fast-paced work environment with excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize appropriately and meet deadlines. 
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills. 
• Detail-oriented and excellent problem-solving abilities.

Final salary will be determined by the level at which the role is filled and by factors such as skills, competencies, experience, education, and other job-related criteria permitted by law. This range reflects base salary only and does not include annual bonus or equity.

Korro Bio offers a competitive total rewards package, including equity-based compensation and comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; life insurance; dependent care flexible spending account; company-funded health savings account; and complimentary parking or a MBTA commuter pass.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.