Jobs and Careers
WA

Research Associate I/II, Oligonucleotide Synthesis and Chemistry

Wave Life Sciences
United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 26 Jan 2026
💰 $92,000/yr($72,000/yr$92,000/yr)

About the role

Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Our RNA medicines platform, PRISM, combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders. Our toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities includes editing, splicing, RNA interference and antisense silencing, providing us with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology. Our diversified pipeline includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Huntington’s disease, as well as a clinical program in obesity and a preclinical program in NASH/MASH. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible”, we are leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease.

Description:

Wave Life Sciences is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate in oligonucleotide chemistry to join its team in Lexington, Massachusetts. This is an ideal opportunity for an individual who is interested in learning cutting edge technologies and who thrives in a team-oriented, fast-paced, cross-disciplinary biotech environment. The candidate will take an active role in high-throughput oligonucleotide synthesis, purification and analytical characterization for discovery-related activities. This is an onsite position located in our Lexington office. 

Experience:

  • B.S. in Chemistry or related discipline with 2-4 years of experience or M.S. with 0-2 years of experience

Responsibilities:     

  • Play a key role in stereopure oligonucleotide synthesis and purification in a 96-well plate format for multiple projects/targets
  • Characterization of oligonucleotides by analytical techniques i.e. UV, pH, UPLC and LC-MS 
  • Operate and maintain lab equipment such as MerMade synthesizers, ÄKTA purifiers, UPLC, LC-MS, Nanodrop, speed vac, lyophilizers, etc.
  • Maintain detailed written and electronic records of experimental protocols and data in accordance with company policy
  • Presentation of results in written and oral format within a multidisciplinary team
  • Establish and maintain excellent working relationships within the team and with collaborative partners throughout the company

Key Skills:

  • Familiarity with solid-phase synthesis would be favorable
  • Experience with HPLC purification preferred
  • Understanding of analytical techniques such as UPLC and LC-MS preferred
  • Demonstrable organizational and time management skills while handling multiple projects
  • Ability to be highly productive and innovative in a fast-paced work environment

Pay Range External Disclosure Statement

The annual base salary for this position is $72,000 - $92,000.

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the annual base salary pay range for this position at the time of posting. Actual annual base salary will vary based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, qualifications, position criticality, and internal equity.  This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus and discretionary stock-based long-term incentives.  In addition to compensation, Wave offers a comprehensive and competitive range of benefits designed to support our employees’ and their families physical and financial health and overall well-being. These include, but are not limited to, company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, life, long and short-term disability insurances, generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), 401K participation with matching contributions, and Employee Stock Purchase Program.

Wave Life Sciences provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Wave Life Sciences complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Wave Life Sciences expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Wave Life Sciences’ employees to perform th

Apply for this role

Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.

Apply Now →Generate Application Kit

Free account required — sign up in 30s

Company

Wave Life Sciences

View company profile →