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Oligonucleotides Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scientist, RNA Chemistry

Waltham, MA · On-site

$118K - $145K/yr

Independently perform synthesis of modified RNA oligonucleotides (ASO, siRNAs) incorporating diverse sugar and backbone chemistries at scales suitable for both in vitro and in vivo studies.

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How much do oligonucleotides jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for oligonucleotides in the United States is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oligonucleotide scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oligonucleotide Scientist, you need a solid background in molecular biology, organic chemistry, and nucleic acid synthesis, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with automated oligonucleotide synthesizers, analytical instruments like HPLC and mass spectrometry, and software for sequence design is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for ensuring high-quality synthesis, accurate analysis, and successful collaboration in research or pharmaceutical environments.

What is the difference between Oligonucleotides vs Molecular Biologists?

AspectOligonucleotides

Oligonucleotides are short DNA or RNA sequences used in genetic research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Molecular biologists design, synthesize, and analyze these sequences as part of their work. While oligonucleotides are tools or materials, molecular biologists are professionals who perform experiments, interpret data, and develop applications involving these molecules. Both roles often require knowledge of molecular biology techniques, but oligonucleotides are specific products, whereas molecular biologists are researchers or scientists in the field.

What are oligonucleotides?

Oligonucleotides are short sequences of nucleotides, typically composed of DNA or RNA, that are synthesized to have a specific sequence of bases. They are widely used in molecular biology research, diagnostics, and therapeutic applications, such as PCR primers, probes, and antisense therapies. Oligonucleotides can be custom-made to target specific genes, making them valuable tools in genetic testing, gene editing, and drug development.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in oligonucleotide synthesis and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in oligonucleotide synthesis often encounter challenges such as maintaining high purity and yield, troubleshooting synthesis failures, and working with sensitive reagents or complex modifications. Addressing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with automated synthesizers, and staying updated on best practices for purification and quality control. Collaborating closely with analytical teams and participating in ongoing training can also help resolve technical issues efficiently and ensure the delivery of high-quality oligonucleotides for research or therapeutic use.
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What cities are hiring for Oligonucleotides jobs? Cities with the most Oligonucleotides job openings:
What states have the most Oligonucleotides jobs? States with the most job openings for Oligonucleotides jobs include:
Infographic showing various Oligonucleotides job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Director, CMC (Therapeutic Oligonucleotides)

HAYA Therapeutics

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Lead the global chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) strategy, process optimization, and contract manufacturing network for therapeutic oligonucleotides to ensure the seamless, compliant supply of drug substance and drug product across clinical pipeline phases.

Accountabilities:

  • Design and execute phase-appropriate global CMC development strategies for therapeutic oligonucleotides from late-stage discovery through advanced clinical testing to achieve corporate pipeline milestones.
  • Direct external Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs) and analytical testing laboratories, overseeing technology transfers, process scale-ups, and cGMP campaigns.
  • Optimize solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis, cleavage, deprotection, purification, and lyophilization processes to maximize production yields and ensure operational efficiency.
  • Oversee the development, qualification, and validation of analytical methods for release testing, stability monitoring, and impurity characterization to maintain high product quality.
  • Partner with the Quality Assurance team to review and approve master batch records, executed runs, and stability protocols to ensure unconditional compliance with cGMP and phase-appropriate regulatory guidelines.
  • Author, review, and finalize CMC technical sections (Module 3) for global regulatory filings (including INDs, IMPDs, and NDAs) to facilitate rapid health authority approvals.
  • Formulate technical data packages and precise written responses to CMC-related inquiries from global regulatory agencies (including the US FDA and EMA).
  • Serve as the primary CMC representative on cross-functional program teams, collaborating closely with Discovery Biology, Translational Research, Regulatory Affairs, and Clinical Operations to ensure clinical trial material readiness.
  • Forecast long-term chemical material needs and manage chemical raw inventory pools (including amidites and solid supports) to de-risk global clinical supply chains.

Requirements

Required Knowledge and Experience

  • Demonstrated technical depth leading outsourced cGMP manufacturing operations and managing technology transfers with international CDMOs.
  • Proven competence in therapeutic oligonucleotide chemistry (including ASOs, siRNA, and sgRNA), phosphoramidite workflows, conjugation strategies, and advanced purification techniques.
  • Advanced working knowledge of analytical chemistry specific to oligonucleotides, with deep expertise in sequence confirmation, impurity profiling, and stability control strategies.
  • Thorough understanding of global regulatory guidelines (ICH, FDA, and EMA) regarding the development, characterization, and manufacturing specifications of synthetic oligonucleotides.
  • Exposure to or direct experience tracking targeted delivery systems for oligonucleotides, such as GalNAc conjugates or lipid nanoparticles (LNPs).
  • Advanced educational background (PhD level preferred) in Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a highly related life sciences discipline.

HAYA Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued and empowered. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), national origin, ancestry, age, marital or familial status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind and are committed to ensuring fair and equitable treatment in all aspects of recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, and career development.

At HAYA, we believe that diversity of thought, experience, and background drives innovation and strengthens our mission to transform patient care through cutting-edge RNA-based therapeutics.