Scientist – Oligonucleotide Chemistry & Innovation

About the role

Roche's Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED) organization develops medicines for patients, and its Therapeutic Modality (TMo) organization translates disease biology into drug candidates across small molecules, large molecules, oligonucleotides and genomic medicines. As an experienced Scientist in Oligonucleotide Chemistry, you will be a key architect of the therapeutic pipeline, championing the rational design and chemical modification framework for next-generation small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). You will work closely with computational platforms and discovery teams to build proprietary libraries and define structure-activity relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Design and champion the rational chemical modification framework for next-generation oligonucleotides, including siRNAs and ASOs, to advance drug discovery projects.
• Collaborate with computational experts and synthesis teams to create novel oligonucleotide libraries, bridging theoretical chemistry with data-driven design.
• Analyze experimental data using advanced computational methods and use continuous learning cycles to refine chemical designs.
• Translate innovative chemical concepts into synthetically accessible structures with precision and attention to detail.
• Stay ahead of emerging technologies and external breakthroughs to improve safety profiles, durability and therapeutic performance.
• Partner with biology, pharmacology and toxicology teams to evaluate biological impacts and guide strategic decisions.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Oligonucleotide Chemistry, Organic Chemistry or a related discipline.
• 3 to 5 years of industry experience in biotech or pharmaceutical sectors; experience across different oligonucleotide modalities is highly desirable.
• Deep expertise in translating chemical modifications of oligonucleotides into drug candidate designs.
• Understanding of modern oligonucleotide modification patterns (e.g., 2'-O-methyl, 2'-fluoro, LNA, cEt) and their effect on therapeutic properties.
• Familiarity with delivery technologies such as GalNAc, lipid or peptide conjugates; insights into linker design are highly valued.
• Independent problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with and guide cross-functional teams.