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Nucleic Acid Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Centrillion Biosciences, Inc.

Chemist

Palo Alto, CA

Centrillion is seeking a creative, energetic, resourceful and success-oriented organic chemist to join a multidisciplinary research team developing new technologies for nucleic acid sequence analysis.

Centrillion Biosciences, Inc.

Chemist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Centrillion is seeking a creative, energetic, resourceful and success-oriented organic chemist to join a multidisciplinary research team developing new technologies for nucleic acid sequence analysis.

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How much do nucleic acid chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for nucleic acid chemist in the United States is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nucleic acid chemist?

A Nucleic Acid Chemist is a scientist who specializes in the study and manipulation of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. Their work involves designing, synthesizing, modifying, and analyzing nucleic acid molecules for various applications in biotechnology, medicine, and research. Nucleic Acid Chemists play a vital role in developing new drugs, diagnostic tools, and gene-editing technologies. They often work in laboratories within academic, pharmaceutical, or biotech settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nucleic acid chemist?

To thrive as a Nucleic Acid Chemist, you typically need a strong background in organic or analytical chemistry, molecular biology, and a relevant advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc. Proficiency with techniques like HPLC, mass spectrometry, nucleic acid synthesis, and familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out in this position. These qualifications are crucial for ensuring high-quality research, accurate data, and successful collaboration in the development of nucleic acid-based products or therapies.

What are some common challenges faced by nucleic acid chemists when synthesizing complex oligonucleotides?

Nucleic Acid Chemists often encounter challenges such as ensuring high purity and yield during the synthesis of complex oligonucleotides, especially when introducing chemical modifications or working with longer sequences. Maintaining stringent quality control to prevent cross-contamination and degradation is crucial, as is troubleshooting equipment or reagent inconsistencies. Collaborating closely with analytical teams and biologists is also a routine part of the job, ensuring that synthesized products meet the specifications required for downstream applications like therapeutics or diagnostics.

What is the difference between Nucleic Acid Chemist vs Molecular Biologist?

AspectNucleic Acid ChemistMolecular Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fields; often with specialized training in nucleic acidsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on chemical synthesis, modification, and analysis of nucleic acidsResearch labs studying gene function, expression, and cellular processes
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, research institutionsAcademic, biotech, healthcare research

While both roles involve working with genetic materials, a Nucleic Acid Chemist specializes in the chemical aspects of nucleic acids, such as synthesis and modification, whereas a Molecular Biologist focuses on understanding gene functions and biological processes. The roles often overlap in research settings but differ in their primary focus and skill set.

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Nucleic Acid Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nucleic Acid Chemist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,466 per year, or $31 per hour.

Scientist Nucleic Acid Chemistry

Centrillion Biosciences, Inc.

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Company Description
Centrillion is creating transformative genomic technologies leveraging engineering and biochemistry breakthroughs to accelerate discovery and reveal the real genome that has thus far been obscured by its complexity and the limitations of existing technologies. Our team of scientists and engineers is committed to making a new generation of genomic technologies accessible and affordable for a multitude of previously unapproachable apps. Centrillion is backed by venture capital and strategic investors and is located at Palo Alto, CA, at the innovation center of Silicon Valley and close to Stanford University.
Job Description
Centrillion is seeking a creative, energetic, and resourceful organic chemist to join a multidisciplinary research team developing new technologies for nucleic acid sequence analysis.
  • Conduct research experiments involving synthesis and analytical characterization of small molecules, nucleotides and oligonucleotides; and analysis of their properties and behavior in various biochemical reactions.
  • Modification and characterization of surfaces, including immobilization of biomolecules.
  • Bioconjugation chemistry.
  • She/he will be required to develop competencies in additional techniques, and apply their practical skills and knowledge to solving a range of technical problems.
  • Documentation of experimental work, analysis of data and reporting/presenting results.
  • Collaboration with and/or supervision of other technical staff.

Qualifications
  • MS/BS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering including training and hands-on laboratory experience.
  • Proficient in the use of instrumentation for chemical and spectroscopic analysis, such as LC, MS, NMR, FTIR, UV, Fluorescence, etc.
  • Working knowledge of polymer and surface chemistry.
  • Post-graduate experience in chemical or life sciences or related area is desirable.
  • Demonstrated ability to plan and execute independent and collaborative research projects.
  • Hands-on attitude and innovative approach to problem solving.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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