Scientist II - Oligonucleotides

Our client, leading leader in biotechnology and diagnostics, is looking for Scientist II

• Oligonucleotides based out of South San Francisco. If you are interested to discuss further, please review the details below. Duration: Long term contract (Possibility of further extension) Pay Rate: $53.50/hr on W2 Job Summary: We are seeking a motivated Oligonucleotide Scientist II to support oligonucleotide therapeutic discovery within a collaborative drug discovery team. The successful candidate will have hands-on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and characterization, and will contribute to the development of RNA-based therapeutics across neuroscience, oncology, and immunology programs.

Responsibilities

Perform hands-on synthesis, purification, and characterization of oligonucleotides using automated synthesizers, HPLC, and mass spectrometry. Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot oligonucleotide synthesis methods, including impurity profiling and process improvements. Collaborate with cross-functional research teams to support oligonucleotide therapeutic discovery and lead molecule progression.

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment including oligo synthesizers, HPLC systems, and desalting units. Execute nucleic acid chemistry experiments, analyze data, maintain laboratory documentation, and support scale-up synthesis for preclinical studies. Conduct literature reviews and contribute to experimental planning, scientific discussions, and project presentations.

Maintain high laboratory productivity while adhering to safety and quality standards. Required Qualifications BS or MS in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related scientific discipline. Hands-on experience with automated oligonucleotide synthesis. Experience with HPLC purification and mass spectrometry for oligonucleotide characterization.

Knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry and oligonucleotide synthesis workflows. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in RNAi therapeutics, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), or nucleic acid therapeutics. Experience with large molecule drug discovery, oligonucleotide delivery, or bioconjugation. Knowledge of sequence design, nucleic acid modifications, and therapeutic mechanisms of action. Pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience in oligonucleotide drug discovery.

Experience supporting preclinical research and scale-up synthesis. Key Skills Oligonucleotide Synthesis Automated Oligo Synthesizers RNAi / RNA Therapeutics Nucleic Acid Chemistry HPLC Purification Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Oligonucleotide Characterization Impurity Profiling & Troubleshooting Organic Synthesis If interested, please send your updated resume at hr@dawarconsulting.

com/kavitha@dawarconsulting.com