Chemist II - Oligonucleotide Synthesis

About the role

A full-time, non-exempt Chemist II (Analyst II) in the Consumer Products Services division, reporting to a manager, works on oligonucleotide synthesis and downstream processing in Indianapolis. The role uses Dr. Oligo and MerMade 192 synthesizers, AKTA, LC-MS, UPLC, LTQ, QDA and a Lynx liquid handler, and involves working on several projects at once, training new staff and staying up to date with new oligonucleotide modifications. Hours are typically Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, with flexibility for department needs.

Key responsibilities

• Independently perform synthesis and downstream processing: cleavage, deprotection, purification, desalting and annealing
• Carry out bioconjugation of single-strand oligonucleotides
• Operate general lab equipment and instruments such as synthesizers, LC-MS, UPLC, LTQ, QDA, Nanodrop and automation instruments
• Work with the RNAi plate synthesis team to understand and validate synthesis and downstream requirements
• Review literature on new oligonucleotide methods and provide technical solutions to clients and management
• Maintain detailed daily records in electronic laboratory notebooks and keep general lab maintenance
• Train new staff and identify, troubleshoot and recommend technical solutions
• Follow quality, health, safety, security and environmental policies and comply with client and company management systems

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry or a closely related field
• At least one year of experience in oligonucleotide chemistry or plate-based automation development
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted

Required skills

• Optimizing synthetic protocols on synthesizers and experience with automation instruments (Tecan, Lynx, Dispendix, Hamilton, Beckman)
• Analytical instrumentation (AKTA, Agilent LC-MS, UPLC, Vanquish LTQ, Waters QDA)
• Statistical analysis tools and written technical reports
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams/SharePoint) and LIMS