Senior Scientist

Job Title:
Senior Scientist - Oligonucleotide Process Research & Development (PhD)

Location:
 hangzhou , zhejiang , China

About Us

Sinopep is a leading China-based CDMO partner focused on accelerating the discovery, development, and manufacturing of innovative oligonucleotide therapeutics. We provide integrated solutions from preclinical to commercial supply, leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and deep scientific expertise. Join our dynamic team and contribute to advancing the next generation of genetic medicines for global partners.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative PhD Scientist to join our expanding Oligonucleotide Process R&D team. This role is pivotal in designing, developing, optimizing, and scaling robust, cost-effective, and sustainable chemical processes for the synthesis and purification of therapeutic oligonucleotides (ASOs, siRNA, aptamers, etc.) for our global CDMO clients. The successful candidate will lead projects from early-stage feasibility through process characterization and technology transfer to GMP manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

1、Lead Oligonucleotide Process Development
: Design, plan, execute, and analyze experiments to develop and optimize solid-phase (SPOS) and/or solution-phase synthesis processes for complex oligonucleotides (including modified nucleotides, conjugates).

2、Purification & Analytical Focus:
 Develop, optimize, and scale chromatographic purification strategies (e.g., RP-HPLC, IE-HPLC, AEX) for crude oligonucleotides. Integrate analytical methods (HPLC, UPLC, MS, CE, UV, NMR) for process monitoring, impurity characterization, and control strategy development.

3、Scale-Up & Technology Transfer
: Lead the scale-up of developed processes from laboratory to pilot plant and ultimately to GMP manufacturing scales. Author robust technical transfer documents and provide hands-on support during transfer activities.

4、Process Characterization & Validation:
 Contribute to or lead process characterization studies (e.g., identification of Critical Process Parameters - CPPs) to establish proven acceptable ranges (PARs) and support process validation (PPQ) activities.

5、Innovation & Problem Solving:
Proactively identify process bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or quality issues and develop innovative, scientifically sound solutions. Explore novel technologies and methodologies to enhance synthesis, purification, or analytical capabilities.

6、Data Analysis & Documentation:
Rigorously analyze experimental data, draw sound scientific conclusions, and maintain accurate, detailed laboratory notebooks and electronic records. Prepare high-quality technical reports, development reports, and sections of regulatory submissions (e.g., CMC modules).

7、Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Work effectively with Analytical Development, Manufacturing, Project Management, Quality Assurance (QA), and Quality Control (QC) teams to ensure seamless project execution and alignment with client timelines and quality standards.

8、External Communication:
Present scientific results clearly and concisely to internal stakeholders and external clients. Participate in technical discussions and project meetings.

9、Mentorship (Potential):
 Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists and research associates.

Required Qualifications & Experience

1、Education:
 PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.

2、Experience:
 0-5 years of relevant industrial experience (post-PhD) in oligonucleotide process R&D within a pharmaceutical, biotech, or CDMO setting. Exceptional new PhD graduates with a strong focus on oligonucleotide synthesis/chemistry will be considered.

3、Core Technical Expertise:

(1)Deep understanding of oligonucleotide chemistry (phosphoramidite synthesis, protecting groups, coupling efficiency, side reactions).

(2)Proven hands-on experience in developing and optimizing oligonucleotide synthesis processes (SPOS required; solution-phase a plus).

(3)Extensive experience with oligonucleotide purification techniques, particularly preparative HPLC (RP, IE, AEX).

(4)Strong proficiency in analytical techniques for oligonucleotide characterization (HPLC/UPLC, MS, CE, UV-Vis, NMR interpretation).

(5)Experience with process optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up principles.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV/resume, a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and research interests to