Oligonucleotide Chemist

Oligonucleotide Chemist

Reports to: Principal Oligonucleotide Chemist

Team: Preclinical Development     

About e-therapeutics

e-therapeutics (ETX) is a UK-headquartered techbio company with an innovative proprietary computational platform designed to enhance drug discovery and a proprietary RNA interference platform, able to silence any gene in the liver. e-therapeutics combines two cutting-edge technologies and is uniquely positioned at the interface of the hugely promising fields of AI and RNAi, currently advancing a pipeline of highly differentiated RNAi therapeutics in areas of high unmet need. with the first programs entering IND-enabling studies. Following a recent fundraise and to support the company’s next phase of growth, we are expanding our team and looking for talented and motivated individuals to join our dynamic, ‘do what’s needed’ culture. We enjoy our work and strive to create an exciting place to work in an environment where everyone feels comfortable to express their views and opinions.

About the role

e-therapeutics’ ambition is to become a leading player in leveraging computational power and biology to accelerate the discovery of life transforming RNAi medicines. The company has been developing its RNAi platform technology and in-house pipeline of next-generation RNAi-based medicines. With a robust preclinical pipeline of assets in preclinical development and IND-enabling studies, the company is now seeking a dedicated Oligonucleotide Chemist to join our Preclinical Development team, contributing to our mission of discovering transformative RNAi medicines. This role involves the management of a network of CRO partners for synthesis, modification, and characterization of oligonucleotides, nucleotides, and nucleosides, supporting the preclinical team with the development of siRNA therapeutics.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in our dynamic research environment, applying their expertise in nucleic acid chemistry to advance our preclinical pipeline and improve our platform. They will be responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with CROs and managing outsourced projects.

The position is based in London, UK. The working hours for this role are 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with attendance at the company premises in London Paddington on four days per week (Monday to Thursday), with a fifth day (Friday) to be worked from home (or the office if you prefer).

Responsibilities

• Manage and progress work with a network of trusted partner CROs while collaborating with the preclinical team to ensure materials are available on time for experiments.
• Generate data that supports candidate selection and regulatory requirements.
• Design of new oligonucleotides, nucleotides, and nucleosides for RNAi applications and characterization and optimization of nucleic acid constructs for improved stability, delivery, and efficacy.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and implement innovative approaches in oligonucleotide modification.

NB: This is not a laboratory-based position.

Skills

• MSc in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field, with a strong focus on oligonucleotide, nucleotide, or nucleoside chemistry.

• A minimum of 3 years of industry experience in nucleic acid chemistry or a PhD in nucleic acid chemistry.

• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis, purification, and analysis of oligonucleotides.

• Knowledge of the CRO landscape and experience working with CROs to deliver fully costed agreements and study protocols, while building strong relationships with partners

• Experience in working collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and commitment to high-quality research.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with proficiency in English.

Additional Qualifications

• Experience with CMC for IND-enabling activities and the preparation of regulatory packages would be desirable but not essential.
• Experience with molecular docking simulations.
• ELN notebook and inventory management.

The offer

• The challenge and excitement of being part of an expanding, fast-paced company.

• The opportunity to contribute to a transformational change in the way drug discovery is conducted.

• Close collaboration with a talented team of experts across different scientific domains

• The possibility to boost your experience and career.

• You will join a highly motivated, international, and dynamic team.