Position Summary:

Prime Medicine is seeking a passionate and technically accomplished Associate Scientist II to join our guide RNA chemistry team and work with an enthusiastic team of highly skilled scientists in a dynamic and high-growth company. This position is a hands-on role, and the successful candidate will have deep knowledge and experience in long oligonucleotide purification and downstream processing to advance our cutting-edge gene editing drug discovery programs. The ideal candidate will work under the supervision of a senior staff and/or independently and help to grow our internal guide RNA synthesis capabilities. Core competencies include an ability to function in an interdisciplinary and fast-paced startup environment coupled with a proactive and collaborative approach. This position will be based in our Watertown, MA location.

Key Responsibilities:

• Purification and analysis of research scale long oligonucleotides of various chemistries using chromatographic techniques.
• Execute purification, desalting, lyophilization, and analysis of long guide RNAs with chemical modifications using various techniques, including reverse-phase and ion-exchange HPLCs, UPLC, LCMS, etc.
• HPLC and UPLC methods development for the purification and analysis of long oligonucleotides and their conjugates.
• Supporting solid-phase synthesis of guide RNA with chemical modifications using automated synthesizers such as MerMade 12, Dr. Oligo 48, etc.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory equipment, purification, and analytical instruments such as Agilent HPLC system, AKTA purifier, UPLC, LCMS, and other state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, ensuring their proper use and performance.
• Prepare various buffers accurately and consistently for guide RNA purification and analysis.
• Track progress, generate status updates, organize experimental data, and present in both written and oral formats at cross-functional team meetings.
• Prepare SOPs and maintain a well-documented electronic laboratory notebook.
• Conduct laboratory experiments safely and efficiently, ensuring a safe working environment for colleagues.
• Capable of performing repetitive tasks and assigned duties. Highly motivated and productive in a fast-paced work environment.

Required Experience/Skills:

• BS or BA in Chemistry or related fields with 1 – 3 years of chemistry laboratory experience in an industrial or academic setting; or M.S. in Chemistry or related fields with excellent understanding of nucleic acids and analytical chemistry and 1 – 2 years of chemistry laboratory experience.
• Excellent experience in oligonucleotide purification techniques, including reverse-phase and ion-exchange chromatography.
• Strong analytical skills and experience analyzing oligo nucleotide samples using LCMS, UPLC, and other relevant analytical techniques.
• Solid-phase synthesis of long oligonucleotides using automated synthesizers is a plus.
• Proficiency in handling, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance of critical instrumentation such as automated HPLCs, UPLCs, LCMS, oligonucleotide synthesizers, etc.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to producing pure and high-quality guide RNA oligonucleotides.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a team environment.
• High flexibility and work well in a fast-paced work environment.
• Proficient in data analysis and ELN record-keeping, with good documentation practices.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Detail-oriented and excellent problem-solving abilities.