Principal Scientist, Chemistry

Boston, MA, United States

Verve is a clinical-stage genetic medicines company established with a mission to solve the global health epidemic of cardiovascular disease. Founded by world-leading experts in cardiovascular medicine, human genetics and gene-editing, Verve is pioneering a new approach to the care of cardiovascular disease, potentially transforming treatment from chronic management to single-course gene editing medicines. The company’s initial three programs – VERVE-101, VERVE-102, and VERVE-201 – target genes that have been extensively validated as targets for lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), a root cause of cardiovascular disease. VERVE-101 and VERVE-102 are designed to permanently turn off the PCSK9 gene in the liver and are being developed initially for heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and ultimately to treat atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) patients not at goal on oral therapy. VERVE-201 is designed to permanently turn off the ANGPTL3 gene in the liver and is initially being developed for homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) and ultimately to treat patients with refractory hypercholesterolemia. In 2023, Verve was named a Top Place to Work by The Boston Globe for the third consecutive year. Verve is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

The Position Verve is seeking a Principal Scientist to oversee our chemistry team focused on oligonucleotides drug design and synthesis. The successful candidate will be accountable for supporting platform strategy and building the medicinal chemistry platform for gene editing. This individual is expected to work collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team to support the progression of gene-editor-based therapeutic modalities from early research to clinic. We are searching for an enthusiastic individual who is self-driven with a proven track record of scientific excellence with demonstrated success in leading and developing a scientific team at all levels and of cross-functional collaborations. This individual is expected to work hands on the lab alongside their team.

Job Responsibilities Define project-related oligonucleotide / guide RNA medicinal chemistry strategies and overall strategies for platform innovation as well as applying those innovative strategies to drug discovery projects from target ID to hit identification, lead selection, and candidate nomination.

Be an integral part of platform leadership team and lead all the oligonucleotide medicinal chemistry related efforts to secure key project milestones.

Define medicinal chemistry strategy for oligonucleotides / guide RNAs and clearly articulate the plans with risk mitigation steps.

Proven ability as a leader in coaching and providing feedback and directions to enable employee development and growth.

Provide guidance to internal and external chemists and support all aspects of oligonucleotide operation including small, medium and large-scale synthesis.

Strong organizational leadership skills and dynamic range with a proven track record in setting vision and strategy while managing the day-to-day tactical responsibilities.

Excellent communication, cross-functional and collaborative leadership skills with the ability to influence key stakeholders and provide direction to direct reports and cross-functional teams members.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications B.S. in chemistry or similar area with 15+ years of experience in oligonucleotide chemistry in a drug discovery setting OR;

M.S. in chemistry or similar area with 13+ years of experience in oligonucleotide chemistry in a drug discovery setting OR;

Ph.D. in chemistry or similar area with 12+ years of experience in oligonucleotide chemistry in a drug discovery setting

Experience in solid phase oligonucleotide chemistry and hands -on experience with various oligonucleotide synthesizers are a must.

Experience in oligonucleotide purifications using different chromatographic approaches and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art chromatographic infrastructure.

Experience in phosphoramidite chemistry and oligonucleotide conjugation strategies to attach ligands such as carbohydrates, lipids, peptides. Knowledge in nucleoside/nucleotide chemistry is desirable.

Strong change and learning agility with a proven history of bringing new ideas and creativity, both scientifically and strategically.

Demonstrated ability to be nimble and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic culture and environment.

Energetic, motivational, positive and collaborative leadership skills in bringing out the best in others and leveraging capabilities to advance the organization’s mission.

Experience leading and developing a team.

Contributing to and leading cross-functional teams to achieve company goals.

Don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above? Please consider applying anyway. We want the best candidates for the job, and those candidates don’t always meet 100% of the qualifications listed. At Verve, we are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams who embody the values we share: grit, spirit, drive, and passion. We look forward to learning more about your unique background.

EEO Statement Verve Therapeutics is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies Verve Therapeutics does not accept agency resumes unless contacted directly by internal Verve Talent Acquisition. Please do not forward resumes to Verve employees or any other company location; Verve Therapeutics is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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