Oligonucleotide Scientist II

Reference: 630781Posted: 2026-09-08Location: South San Francisco, CACompany: Planet Pharma GroupContact: ApplicationsEmail: View email address on click.appcast.io Position: We are seeking a creative, self-motivated, collaborative Scientist-II to join the Nucleic Acid Design and Discovery (NADD) team within ProteinSciences (PS) department. We are looking for a candidate with experience in oligonucleotide discovery and synthesis to support our new oligonucleotide therapeutics discovery group. Experience in delivery of oligonucleotide therapeutics, large molecule drug discovery, would be preferred. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary chemistry team working in RNAi biology research and will contribute positively to its developing culture. Key Responsibilities:

• The candidate will work in an oligonucleotide therapeutic drug discovery research lab and interface across different therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, immunology and oncology, to help build a comprehensive therapeutic discovery strategy.
• Good understanding and also troubleshooting experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, impurity profiling is a plus.
• Collaborate with other scientists to maintain common lab equipment such as oligo synthesizers, HPLC and desalting units.
• Perform literature reviews, propose, and execute nucleic acid chemistry plans, coordinate chemistry and biology data to support oligonucleotide compound progression.
• Establish methods for scaled-up synthesis of lead molecules and coordinate material delivery for preclinical studies.
• Maintaining a high level of productivity in the laboratory setting to meet the timelines for in vitro and in vivo studies.

• The candidate must have hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis using automated oligo synthesizers, novel nucleic acid chemistry, oligonucleotide purification and characterization using HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• The qualified individual will possess a BS/MS in Organic Chemistry or related discipline.
• The pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience in research and development of RNAi therapeutics is preferred.
• A good understanding of nucleic acid therapeutic modalities, modification chemistries, sequence selection, and mechanism of action is preferred. Relevant experience in oligonucleotide therapeutics, large molecule drug discovery, oligonucleotide delivery or bio-conjugation is desirable.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential and will be evaluated during the interview process.
• The ideal candidate should be highly motivated and have strong problem-solving, analytical, communication and organizational skills.Pay Rate Range: $40-49/hr depending on experience