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Chemist - Oligonucleotide Chemistry

In the RNA Therapeutics team, we are building state-of-the art expertise in major oligonucleotide-based therapeutics and delivery approaches, with an emphasis on innovative approaches with potential for breakthrough efficacy. Our agile and diverse team strives to operate as an autonomous ‘biotech-like’ company within the walls of Lilly. We are looking for an engaged and independent team member who will make impactful contributions to next-generation preclinical drug discovery efforts. Oligonucleotide laboratory chemists as well as experienced small molecule chemists with a desire to transition to oligonucleotide chemistry are encouraged to apply.

You will join our fast-paced, interdisciplinary team as we discover novel RNA/oligonucleotide-based medicines with disease-curing potential. The successful applicant will utilize their knowledge and technical expertise to complement and enable core capabilities and help drive the discovery and development of RNA-based clinical candidates. Do you have an aptitude for innovative applied chemistry towards drug discovery and a desire to use your skills to improve lives? We want you on our team!

Responsibilities:

Synthesize, purify, and analyze highly modified oligonucleotides/conjugates and small molecules to drive projects forward efficientlyPrioritize and lead in proactive safety practices as a part of an effective laboratory cultureIndependently problem-solve in the laboratory setting to overcome synthetic challenges and improve upon existing workflowsMaintain a productive laboratory workspace including the operation and maintenance of an oligonucleotide synthesizer and/or other scientific equipmentCollaborate with chemists and scientists from other fields in a team environment focused on experimental execution and delivering on shared project goalsInterpret and communicate structure-activity relationships and generate new oligonucleotide-based designsSearch relevant chemical and scientific literature and implement new strategies and techniques accordinglyAccurately document experimental procedures and communicate results via presentations and written reports

Basic Qualifications:

Master's degree in Chemistry or a related field or Bachelor's degree with 1-2 years of experience in Chemistry or a related field with experience in synthetic organic and/or oligonucleotide chemistry

Additional Skills/Preferences:

Experience in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis using and trouble-shooting automated solid-phase synthesizers and optimizing synthetic protocols and reaction schemasExperience in small molecule organic synthesis including design of synthetic strategies, reaction optimization, work-up/purification techniques, and characterization (NMR, MS, etc.)Experience in the optimization of purification protocols for oligonucleotidesKnowledge or experience in the areas of bioconjugation chemistry as applied to peptides or oligonucleotidesExperience with analytical and physiochemical characterization of novel biomaterials (e.g., mass spectrometry, separation techniques and other biophysical/biochemical techniques)Excellent record keeping and communication skillsConfident, execution-focused, and team oriented with a desire to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment

Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form (https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation) for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.

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Actual compensation will depend on a candidate’s education, experience, skills, and geographic location.  The anticipated wage for this position is

$63,000 - $162,800

Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly’s compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

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