Research Associate / Senior Research Associate - Oligonucleotide Synthesis & Purification Job at OliX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., San Diego, CA

MURNK1Q0ZG5zYU0rU1JWbXFFUkk5R2orVmc9PQ==
  • OliX Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
  • San Diego, CA

Job Description

Location: San Diego, CA 

Seniority Level: Research Associate (RA) / Senior Research Associate (Sr. RA) 

Employment Type: Full-time 

About OliX Pharmaceuticals  

OliX Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing next-generation RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics. Our proprietary asymmetric siRNA (asiRNA) platform enables precise, durable gene silencing and supports delivery platforms such as GalNAc-asiRNA for liver-targeted therapies and cp-asiRNA for local delivery (skin, eye, lung). Active clinical programs and global partnerships (including Eli Lilly, L’Oréal, and Hansoh Pharmaceutical) provide a strong foundation for discovery and development. By joining OliX, you’ll help shape the next generation of RNA medicines. 

 

Role Summary  

We are seeking a hands-on Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to support the synthesis, deprotection, purification, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides that enable OliX’s RNAi pipeline. You will operate and maintain key instrumentation (e.g., HPLC/UHPLC, preparative LC, TFF, UV–Vis), document work in SOPs, batch records, and reports, and collaborate closely with RNAi chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and biology teams to advance discovery and preclinical programs. 

Key Responsibilities  

  • Execute (or Help) solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis (SPS) and downstream processing (cleavage, deprotection, desalting). 
  • Purify and polish oligonucleotides using OPC, analytical and preparative HPLC/UHPLC, and UPLC; perform buffer exchange and concentration via TFF. 
  • Develop and optimize purification methods and in-process controls to improve yield, purity, and throughput. 
  • Perform analytical characterization (UHPLC/LC–MS, UV–Vis); compile CoAs, batch records, and data summaries. 
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab instruments; coordinate vendor service when needed. 
  • Author and revise SOPs, work instructions, and technical reports; ensure data integrity and traceability. 
  • Work cross-functionally with medicinal chemistry and biology teams to align materials specifications and timelines. 
  • Maintain safe, compliant laboratory operations and good housekeeping (5S); participate in EHS initiatives. 
  • (Sr. RA) Mentor junior team members; lead small method-development or process-improvement projects. 

Qualifications  

Required (RA):  

  • B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 0–3+ years of relevant lab experience (industry or academic core facility). 
  • Hands-on experience with oligonucleotide purification (e.g., OPC, HPLC/UHPLC, preparative HPLC in anion exchange and reverse phase chromatography) and basic analytical techniques (UV–Vis, KF, etc). 
  • Familiarity with solid-phase synthesis of workflows and routine instrument maintenance. 
  • Strong record-keeping and communication; proven ability to meet deadlines and work effectively in a team. 

Required (Sr. RA):  

  • B.S./M.S. in a related field with 3–6+ years of relevant industry experience in oligonucleotide synthesis/purification. 
  • Demonstrated proficiency in method development/optimization for oligo purification and in-process analytics. 
  • Experience drafting SOPs/batch records and mentoring junior staff. 

Preferred (both levels):  

  • Experience with LC–MS data acquisition/interpretation for oligonucleotides. 
  • Exposure to nucleoside/nucleotide building blocks or bioconjugation workflows supporting RNAi platforms. 
  • Familiarity with TFF operations and scale-up considerations. 

 

Why Join OliX  

  • Contribute directly to an innovative RNAi pipeline with active clinical programs and world-class partnerships. 
  • Collaborative, growth-focused environment with cross-functional exposure. 
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), equity eligibility, paid holidays/year-end shutdown, stock options). 
  • Base salary range of $60,000 – $90,000 (depending on experience and qualifications) 

 

Work Environment  

  • Onsite laboratory role with routine handling of chemicals and analytical instrumentation. 
  • Some lifting (up to ~25 lb) and extended periods at the bench or operating instrumentation. 
  • Occasional off-hours support during critical runs. 

 

OliX Pharmaceuticals is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.  

 

Job Tags

Full time, Local area,

Similar Jobs

Tradesmen International

Welder Job at Tradesmen International

 ...WABO Certified Welders Pay: $30$34/hr Duration: Long-Term Opportunity Were seeking skilled WABO Certified Welders to join our team for ongoing work. This role is ideal for welders who are confident in their craft, require minimal supervision, and are ready... 

Blinds To Go

Digital Marketing Director Job at Blinds To Go

 ...Digital Marketing Manager Blinds to Go is looking for a data-driven, growth-focused Digital Marketing Director to assume hands-on management and execution of digital advertising campaigns across multiple digital channels including paid search for Google and Bing, Facebook... 

Midland-Marvel Recruiters, LLC

Laboratory/Pathology Supervisor Job at Midland-Marvel Recruiters, LLC

Community hospital looking to bring on Laboratory/Pathology Supervisor! This is a Day Shift position Mon - Fri 8am - 4:30pm. MUST be ASCP certified and MUST have at least 5 years of HOSPITAL Lab experience. Prefers 2 years of Leadership experience. Pathology Supervisor...

Ultimate Staffing

Admin Assistant Job at Ultimate Staffing

Position Overview Ultimate Staffing Services is actively seeking an experienced Admin Assistant to join a dynamic team in California. The ideal candidate will be a highly organized and detail-oriented individual, capable of managing multiple tasks and projects with...

University of Maryland Medical System

Urgent Care Advanced Practitioner - Full Time Traveling Provider: NP or PAc Job at University of Maryland Medical System

 ...Company Description The University of Maryland Urgent Care is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality, patient, family and community centered care. We strive to transform the way we deliver health care to bring convenience and value to every patient in the...