Principal Scientist - Oligonucleotide Design and Chemistry

About the role

The Therapeutic Modalities and Technologies group in the Protein Sciences organization at Genentech is looking for a Principal Scientist (Group Leader) with extensive oligonucleotide experience to lead the design and synthesis of novel oligonucleotides for its nucleic-acid based medicines portfolio. The role is a technical leadership position in South San Francisco, on site, and relocation benefits are available.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, purification and characterization of novel oligonucleotide modalities such as ASOs, siRNAs and saRNAs across drug discovery programs.
• Guide and mentor junior scientists in chemical synthesis, troubleshooting, impurity profiling and analytical characterization.
• Partner with biology and biochemistry teams to design in vitro/in vivo assays, interpret complex data and support rapid decision-making.
• Serve as technical authority across the nucleic-acid portfolio, sharing scientific progress and milestones with project teams and stakeholders.
• Manage laboratory instrumentation and keep lab operations efficient.
• Foster an open, collaborative and inclusive team culture.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Organic/Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Oligonucleotide Chemistry or a closely related field.
• 3+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Proven track record of leading scientific initiatives, mentoring and cross-functional collaboration, evidenced by publications or patents.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Required skills

• Strong hands-on knowledge of siRNA and/or ASO therapeutics, including synthesis, purification and analytics.
• Fluency with diverse backbone modifications and delivery technologies.
• Preferred: experience in bioconjugate design, linker discovery or bioconjugation optimization.

What we offer

• Expected salary range of $143,200 to $266,000 USD per year, depending on experience, qualifications and location.
• A discretionary annual bonus may be available.
• Relocation benefits.