Associate Chemist - Oligonucleotide Chemistry

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Organization Overview:

In Lilly Genetic Medicines, we are building state-of-the art expertise in major oligonucleotide-based therapeutics and delivery approaches, with an emphasis on innovative approaches with potential for breakthrough efficacy. Our agile and diverse team strives to operate as an autonomous ‘biotech-like’ company within the walls of Lilly. We are looking for an engaged and independent team member who will make impactful contributions to next-generation preclinical drug discovery efforts. Oligonucleotide laboratory chemists as well as experienced small molecule chemists with a desire to transition to oligonucleotide chemistry are encouraged to apply.

You will join our fast-paced, interdisciplinary team as we discover novel RNA/oligonucleotide-based medicines with disease-curing potential. The successful applicant will utilize their knowledge and technical expertise to complement and enable core capabilities and help drive the discovery and development of RNA-based clinical candidates. Do you have an aptitude for innovative applied chemistry towards drug discovery and a desire to use your skills to improve lives? We want you on our team!

• Synthesize, purify, and analyze highly modified oligonucleotides/conjugates and small molecules to drive projects forward efficiently
• Prioritize and lead in proactive safety practices as a part of an effective laboratory culture
• Independently problem-solve in the laboratory setting to overcome synthetic challenges and improve upon existing workflows
• Maintain a productive laboratory workspace including the operation and maintenance of an oligonucleotide synthesizer and/or other scientific equipment
• Collaborate with chemists and scientists from other fields in a team environment focused on experimental execution and delivering on shared project goals
• Interpret and communicate structure-activity relationships and generate new oligonucleotide-based designs
• Search relevant chemical and scientific literature and implement new strategies and techniques accordingly
• Accurately document experimental procedures and communicate results via presentations and written reports

• Bachelors or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field.

• At least 1-2 years of experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry is highly preferred.
• Experience in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis using and trouble-shooting automated solid-phase synthesizers and optimizing synthetic protocols and reaction schemas
• Experience in small molecule organic synthesis including design of synthetic strategies, reaction optimization, work-up/purification techniques, and characterization (NMR, MS, etc.)
• Experience in the optimization of purification protocols for oligonucleotides
• Knowledge or experience in the areas of bioconjugation chemistry as applied to peptides or oligonucleotides
• Experience with analytical and physiochemical characterization of novel biomaterials (e.g., mass spectrometry, separation techniques and other biophysical/biochemical techniques)
• Excellent record keeping and communication skills
• Confident, execution-focused, and team oriented with a desire to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment

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