The PositionArrowhead is seeking a hands-on synthetic chemist to support the discovery and development of novel oligonucleotide-based therapeutics. The successful candidate is responsible primarily for the synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel molecular structures to support extrahepatic oligonucleotide delivery, working closely with colleagues across chemistry, DMPK (drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics), biology, analytical sciences, and formulation to support multidisciplinary discovery programs. This is a laboratory-focused position for a scientist who enjoys solving challenging synthetic problems, developing reliable methods, and delivering high-quality compounds for biological evaluation.
This position is posted at the Senior Scientist I level and may also be considered at the Scientist III level, depending on experience.
Responsibilities
- Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize novel compounds and focused analog series.
- Develop and troubleshoot multistep synthetic routes, purification methods, and characterization workflows.
- Coordinate internal and external production of compounds to support project timelines.
- Work with analytical and oligonucleotide chemistry teams to review compound identity, purity, concentration, and suitability for biological testing.
- Coordinate compound availability and timing with DMPK and in vivo pharmacology teams.
- Integrate chemical, analytical, formulation, and pharmacokinetic data to guide subsequent compound designs and recommend appropriate supporting studies.
- Monitor the scientific literature and use emerging findings to propose novel, creative, and testable chemical approaches.
Requirements- PhD. in Chemistry or a related discipline.
- 3+ years of pharmaceutical industry or relevant postdoctoral experience.
- Strong record of hands-on synthetic chemistry and experimental problem-solving.
- Demonstrated ability to independently define synthetic strategy, solve complex chemistry problems, and guide compound-design decisions.
- Ability to interpret cross-functional data and use the results to propose new compounds and supporting experiments.
- Experience leading chemistry activities, mentoring colleagues, or coordinating work across internal and external teams.
Preferred
- Experience with siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, or other nucleic acid modalities.
- Experience designing and synthesizing multifunctional molecules, focused libraries, or compounds requiring orthogonal functional-group strategies.
- Experience working on plasma PK (pharmacokinetic) extension.
- Experience working with highly polar, charged, amphiphilic, or otherwise challenging compounds.
- Familiarity with one or more adjacent areas, including DMPK or pharmacokinetics, formulation or pharmaceutics, drug delivery, supramolecular or colloidal chemistry, lipid or nanoparticle systems, bioconjugation, or bioanalytical chemistry.
- Experience working with external chemistry vendors, contract research organizations (CROs), suppliers, or contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs).
- Experience supporting intellectual property, technical transfer, or progression of discovery compounds.
Scientist III alternative: This position may also be considered at the Scientist III level. At that level, the emphasis is on a strong record of hands-on synthetic chemistry and experimental problem-solving, with the ability to independently execute and optimize synthetic routes given guidance on broader project objectives.
Wisconsin pay range
$120,000-$135,000 USD
Arrowhead provides competitive salaries and an excellent benefit package.
