Senior Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry – RNA & Targeted Therapeutics - South San Francisco, CA

Janssen Research and Development, a member of Johnson and Johnson's Family of Companies, is recruiting for a Senior Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry, RNA & Targeted Therapeutics within Therapeutics Discovery. This position will be based in South San Francisco, CA At the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, we are working to create a world without disease. Transforming lives by finding new and better ways to prevent, intercept, treat and cure disease inspires us. We bring together the best minds and pursue the most promising science. We are Janssen. We collaborate with the world for the health of everyone in it. Learn more at www.janssen.com and follow us @JanssenGlobal. Janssen Research & Development, LLC is part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies. RNA and Targeted Therapeutics is an organization within Therapeutics Discovery committed to the delivery of high-quality drug candidates in the novel synthetic modalities space working closely with all Janssen Therapeutic Areas (TA) discovery teams. Our mission requires strategic thinking, portfolio mindset and deep scientific expertise in several disciplines including oligonucleotide chemistry, bioconjugation chemistry, nanotechnology, cellular and molecular pharmacology, and screening technologies coupled with an ability to work collaboratively with internal and external partners. We are currently seeking an outstanding individual to join our team as a Senior Scientist, Oligonucleotide Chemistry, RNA & Targeted Therapeutics. This role offers tremendous growth opportunity within a dynamic and science-driven organization. In this laboratory-based position, the successful candidate will partner with both internal and external oligonucleotide chemistry teams to generate innovative solutions to synthetic and drug design challenges within the context of nucleic acid drug discovery projects. She/he will maintain close interactions with computer assisted design scientists, biologists, pharmacologists, and pharmaceutical development scientists. Strong people skills and the ability to thrive in a team and goal driven environment are key attributes. This individual must also excel in communication and have strong interpersonal skills necessary to influence in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment. Key Responsibilities: As a dynamic project leader, drive and direct oligonucleotide chemistry functions for siRNA, antisense, or other nucleic acid discovery projects, working in concert with partners in molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, computational chemistry, ADME, structural biology, chemical development, and other key functions Analyze screening data, perform literature reviews, design, propose, and execute nucleic acid chemistry plans, coordinate chemistry and biology data to support oligonucleotide compound progression and patent strategies Developing and executing clear synthetic strategies towards chemically modified single and double stranded oligonucleotide sequences and monomers using state-of-the-art synthetic methodologies. Participate in portfolio and stage-gate reviews, lead the preparation and presentation of dossiers for clinical candidate nomination and compound advancement Maintaining a high level of productivity in the laboratory setting Supervise and direct synthetic chemistry activities at contract research organizations (CROs) Presenting data and reports on project status at individual, group, and departmental meetings. Drafting, executing and serving as lead author on research published in peer reviewed journals, and presenting work at scientific conferences Qualifications PhD in synthetic organic or medicinal chemistry or nucleic acid chemistry, or closely related field is required Postdoctoral experience with an emphasis on oligonucleotide or nucleoside chemistry is preferred A minimum of 3 or more years’ in the biopharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience with experience in research and development of RNAi Therapeutics, with proven track record, is preferred Highly skilled in the multistep synthesis, purification, and characterization of small molecules is preferred Strong experience in the solid phase synthesis of oligonucleotides and/or nucleoside/nucleotide synthesis is preferred Strong understanding of nucleic acid modalities, modification chemistries, sequence selection, and mechanism of action is preferred Experience as a project leader in the biopharmaceutical or biotechnology industry is strongly preferred Strong track record of scientific contributions including peer reviewed first-author publications, patent applications, and/or presentations at major national meetings is preferred Record of maintaining a strong lab presence directly is required This position is located in South San Francisco, CA, and may require approximately 10% travel. At Johnson & Johnson, we’re on a mission to change the trajectory of health for humanity. That starts by creating the world’s healthiest workforce. Through cutting-edge programs and policies, we empower the physical, mental, emotional, and financial health of our employees and the ones they love. As such, candidates offered employment must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or secure an approved accommodation prior to the commencement of employment to support the well-being of our employees, their families and the communities in which we live and work. For more information on how we support the whole health of our employees throughout their wellness, career and life journey, please visit www.careers.jnj.com. Johnson & Johnson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. IND7 Primary Location United States-California-South San Francisco-260 E. Grand Avenue Organization Janssen BioPharma, Inc. (6224) Job Function R&D Requisition ID 2105986971W