Oligonucleotide Synthesis Scientist Lead/Senior/Intermediate/Associate University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

The Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Core is a newly initiated program at the University of Michigan to design and synthesize nucleic acid therapeutic molecules for early-stage research and development. Our team seeks a highly motivated Oligonucleotide Synthesis Scientist to be part of building our dynamic, collaborative, and service-oriented core facility from the ground up. You will be pivotal in building our cutting-edge oligo synthesis platform - enabling ASO, siRNA, and CRISPR guide RNA generation to support translational science on campus and beyond.

• Lead Core Development & Operations
  • Collaborate with leadership on core infrastructure planning - recommending equipment, defining workflows, and developing lab systems.
  • Serve as a key contributor in setting up the automated DNA/RNA synthesis pipeline (e.g., Dr. Oligo systems).
• Hands-On Synthetic Chemistry & QC
  • Operate and maintain automated DNA/RNA synthesizers to produce custom oligonucleotides.
  • Purify products using HPLC (RP, AEX), PAGE, and other advanced chromatographic methods.
  • Conduct rigorous QC workflows (UV-Vis, LC-MS, mass spec) to confirm identity, purity, and yield.
• Scientific Collaboration & Project Oversight
  • Interface with internal and external stakeholders to design oligo modifications aligned with project goals.
  • Support experimental design and data analysis to ensure robust technical outcomes.
• Resource Management & Compliance
  • Maintain inventory of reagents and supplies; optimize ordering and project scheduling to meet service expectations.
  • Monitor instrument performance, oversee routine maintenance, and coordinate vendor support.Uphold SOPs, aseptic protocols, and university safety guidelines.
• Growth & Mentorship
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of core services - identifying innovation opportunities and workflow efficiencies.
  • Mentor junior staff and train new users as the core scales.

Lead Classification

• M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline
• 10+ years of experience in a laboratory setting, withdirect experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification (e.g., ASO, siRNA, gRNA), preferably using automated synthesizers such as Dr. Oligo.
• Expertise in downstream analytics (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis).
• Expertise in nucleic acid chemistry, organic synthesis, and molecular biology.

Senior Classification

• B.S./B.A. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline
• 5+ years of experience in a laboratory setting, withdirect experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification (e.g., ASO, siRNA, gRNA), preferably using automated synthesizers such as Dr. Oligo.
• Expertise in downstream analytics (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis).
• Strong foundation in nucleic acid chemistry, organic synthesis, and molecular biology.

Intermediate Classification

• B.S./B.A. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline
• 3+ years of experience in a laboratory setting, withdirect experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification (e.g., ASO, siRNA, gRNA), preferably using automated synthesizers such as Dr. Oligo.
• Experience with downstream analytics (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis).
• A foundation in nucleic acid chemistry, organic synthesis, and molecular biology.

Associate Classification

• B.S./B.A. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline
• 1+ years of experience in a laboratory setting, withdirect experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification (e.g., ASO, siRNA, gRNA), preferably using automated synthesizers such as Dr. Oligo.
• Knowledge of downstream analytics (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis).
• Knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry, organic synthesis, and molecular biology.

All Classifications

• Demonstrated project management skills - organized, detail-oriented, with excellent record-keeping.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills - comfortable interacting with researchers at all levels.

In order to be considered for this position the applicant must have met or will have met all the required qualifications prior to the start date of employment.

Lead Classification

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline

Senior and Intermediate Classifications

• M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline

Lead, Senior and Intermediate Classifications

• Experience in mentoring or supervising junior scientists.

All Classifications

• Background in a core facility, CRO, or shared- resource environment.
• Familiarity with electronic lab notebooks (ELN), LIMS, or other quality systems.

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Working Conditions

• Laboratory-based role using chemical reagents, automated synthesizers, HPLC, mass spectrometry, etc.
• Occasional light lifting, and time at computers for data analysis and documentation.

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.