Senior Oligo Synthesis Scientist

We are growing and growing fast. Aptamer Group is a leading developer of next-generation molecular tools to enable innovation across the life sciences. We employ a diverse and talented team of high calibre scientists and commercial professionals located at our state-of-the-art development facility in York, UK.

Job Description

The oligo synthesis scientist will play a key role in our aptamer production workflow, they will be working closely with both the production and R&D team to fulfil customer and research related goals. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, synthesis, and analysis of oligonucleotides.

Our ideal candidate will:

• fit with our company culture.
• have a positive, ‘can do’ attitude
• possess good technical skills
• work alongside members of the production team in an engaging and enthusiastic manner and support the culture of timely and efficient project delivery
• be able to work as part of a highly motivated team to deliver parallel customer projects against defined specifications, to a highly controlled timeline and well-defined processes
• have excellent synthetic chemistry skills

Responsibilities:

• Design and perform automated high throughput solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis of novel oligonucleotides with chemical modifications.
• Operate and maintain oligonucleotide synthesis platforms
• Perform analysis of oligonucleotides by HPLC/MS and other scientific equipment.
• Perform method/process development for improved oligonucleotide synthesis and purification processes.
• Author standard operating procedures and maintain well documented records.

Required Skills and Expertise

• A PhD in nucleic acid chemistry or organic chemistry. Candidates without a PhD with strong experience in industry will also be considered.
• A strong record of oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and analysis of oligonucleotides
• Expertise in nucleoside chemistry and chemical modifications of oligonucleotides.
• Proven ability to conduct self-directed research, troubleshooting and work effectively in a dynamic environment with a diverse team.
• Experience in using automated synthesis platforms.

Desirable Skills and Expertise

• Knowledge of aptamer therapeutics, aptamer generation, or aptamer discovery.
• Experience in using LCMS instrumentation and interpreting data.
• Background experience in development, production, and purification of novel phosphoramidites for integration into oligo synthesis workflows

Salary and Benefits

• Salary range: £ 27,500 – £31,500
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Employer contributions pension scheme
• Gym membership (David Lloyds)
• Private Healthcare
• Free on-site car parking
• Regular team events
• Located in one of the best cities in the UK