Post-Doctoral Scientist, Nucleic Acid Chemistry

Job Title: Post-Doctoral Scientist, Nucleic Acid ChemistryLocation: PhiladelphiaReports To: Director, Nucleic Acid ChemistryType: Full-TimeCompany Overview:Based in Philadelphia, Aro Biotherapeutics is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to advancing transformative therapies in Inflammation and Immunological Disorders (I&I). Leveraging cutting-edge RNA technologies including siRNA, we are building a pipeline of innovative treatments designed to address unmet patient needs in I&I, while advancing products in other therapeutic areas in collaboration with partners.Position Summary:Aro is expanding our Nucleic Acids Chemistry team to design and synthesize novel Centyrin-oligonucleotide conjugate based therapeutics. The focus of this role would be on improving potency, reducing OTEs and creating new IP for Aro’s siRNA design. The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of how to generate novel and testable oligonucleotide designs to contribute to oligonucleotide-based therapeutic discovery. The position will require hands-on laboratory work. Close collaboration with other members of the Aro team across protein engineering, chemistry and biology is essential. In this role, you will have the opportunity to contribute directly to efforts that support the company’s portfolio of preclinical therapeutic candidates.Key Responsibilities:Perform oligonucleotide synthesis from low milligram to gram scaleDevelop and execute clear synthetic strategies towards chemically modified oligonucleotides using state-of-the-art synthetic methodologiesOptimize existing oligonucleotide synthetic protocols, purification, and analytical methodsTroubleshoot oligo synthesis issues, maintain lab equipment (Mermade, LCMS, HPLC etc.) and conduct safe lab operationsHPLC purification and LCMS analysis of synthesized siRNAs and other oligonucleotidesMaintain up to date, high quality electronic lab notebooks, and quality CoAsRegularly present work to internal project teams and R&D LeadershipComply with laboratory safety procedures and company guidelinesQualifications:PhD in Chemistry requiredPerform oligonucleotide synthesis from low milligram to gram scaleDevelop and execute clear synthetic strategies towards chemically modified oligonucleotides using state-of-the-art synthetic methodologiesOptimize existing oligonucleotide synthetic protocols, purification, and analytical methodsTroubleshoot oligo synthesis issues, maintain lab equipment (Mermade, LCMS, HPLC etc.) and conduct safe lab operationsHPLC purification and LCMS analysis of synthesized siRNAs and other oligonucleotidesMaintain up to date, high quality electronic lab notebooks, and quality CoAsRegularly present work to internal project teams and R&D LeadershipComply with laboratory safety procedures and company guidelinesEqual Opportunity Employer Disclaimer:Aro Biotherapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.Employment at Will Disclaimer:Nothing in this job description is intended to create an employment contract. Employment with Aro Biotherapeutics is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the company at any time, with or without cause or notice.