Group Leader, Oligonucleotides Chemistry

The Group Leader, Oligonucleotides Chemistry will lead NATi’s oligonucleotide chemistry platform, spanning synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization. This role combines strategic scientific leadership with hands-on technical expertise to advance RNA therapeutic programs from discovery through candidate selection. The successful candidate will build platform capabilities, lead a high-performing team, collaborate across multidisciplinary functions, and drive innovation in next-generation oligonucleotide chemistries and formats.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish, optimize, and scale SPOS-based workflows for synthesis of ASOs, siRNA, SSO, RNA editors, and emerging oligonucleotide modalities.
• Expand platform capabilities through evaluation and implementation of novel chemistries, scaffolds, conjugation strategies, and delivery-enabled formats.
• Develop and maintain SOPs to ensure high-quality, reproducible synthesis, purification, and analytical processes.
• Provide scientific leadership through hands-on experimentation, technical guidance, and problem-solving.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of scientists and research associates.
• Lead oligonucleotide design, synthesis strategy, manufacturability assessment, and optimization within multidisciplinary project teams.
• Collaborate with bioconjugation, biology, analytical, and preclinical teams to support pipeline advancement.
• Manage CRO partnerships while maintaining critical IP-generating activities in-house.
• Contribute to NATi’s intellectual property portfolio, including patent documentation and scientific disclosures.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for leadership and key stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Organic/Medicinal Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years (Senior Scientist), 10 years (Principal Scientist), or 13 years (Associate Director) of relevant industry experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization.
• Hands-on expertise with SPOS platforms, purification technologies, and analytical instrumentation such as LC-MS and UPLC.
• Proven track record in advancing oligonucleotide therapeutics, supported by patents, publications, IND filings, or equivalent achievements.
• Experience building platform capabilities and managing external CRO partnerships.
• Strong leadership, project management, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Prior experience in cardiovascular, metabolic, muscle, retinal, or related therapeutic areas is desirable.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, translational biotechnology environment.
• This position is based in Singapore. Successful candidates must be willing to relocate to Singapore.