About the Department

Dicerna, a Novo Nordisk company, is focused on driving innovation in RNAi (ribonucleic acid interference) to selectively target and silence genes that cause or contribute to disease. Our proprietary GalXC™ and GalXC-Plus™ RNAi technologies have the potential to address conditions that are difficult or impossible to treat with other modalities. Established as a Transformational Research Unit (TRU) following Novo Nordisk’s acquisition of Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in December 2021, the Dicerna TRU is a unique new organization within Novo Nordisk that brings together the best of both worlds – the agility, collaborative pioneering spirit and calculated risk-taking profile of a biotech along with the scale, resources and capabilities of a global leader in drug development. With approximately 200 researchers, scientists, drug developers and operational staff, we are a team of inventive and entrepreneurial thinkers pushing the boundaries of science to create and drive new RNAi-based therapies for both rare and more prevalent diseases from the bench to the clinic. Together, we are driving change. Are you ready to make a difference?

The Position

We are currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated synthetic chemist ready to function in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will be part of the chemistry group responsible for the synthesis of nucleoside analogues, small molecule ligands, linkers, and oligonucleotide conjugates and will work closely with contract research/manufacturing organizations on the scale-up and tech transfer of the processes.

Relationships

This role will report to a senior director in Medicinal Chemistry.

Essential Functions

• Design, plan and execute multi-step organic synthesis and purification of high quality target molecules
• Review research papers and intellectual property literature and propose novel target molecules
• Operate and maintain multiple instrumentation including HPLC, LCMS for purification, characterization and purity determination of prepared compounds
• Leading from the bench, oversee the efforts of external and/or internal chemists to troubleshoot organic chemistry experiments to reach desired goals
• Assist in the planning and management of external research efforts for contract research organizations and collaborations
• Function as a senior member of the chemistry group aiding in the preparation of intellectual property, publications, and project planning

Physical Requirements

0-10% overnight travel required. Ability to lift 0-10 lbs.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in organic chemistry with 1+ years of relevant experience
• In-depth knowledge of organic chemistry reactions and mechanisms
• Experience with chromatography techniques i.e. LC-MS, ion exchange and RP-HPLC
• Thorough understanding of analytical techniques (HPLC, LC-MS, etc) for characterization of prepared compounds
• The successful candidate must be a resourceful and proactive individual who is able to work as a team player in a dynamic environment with tight deadlines
• Demonstrate clear alignment with Dicerna Core Values including, Dedication, Innovation, Communication, Excellence, Respect, Need Based, and Accountability
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in heterocyclic and/or carbohydrate chemistry, familiarity with nucleoside synthesis, bio conjugate chemistry is a plus
  • Knowledge in oligonucleotide chemistry

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, we’re life changing.

Novo Nordisk is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations.

Novo Nordisk requires all new hires to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to the first date of employment. As required by applicable law, Novo Nordisk will consider requests for reasonable accommodation.

If you are interested in applying to Novo Nordisk and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply, please call us at 1-855-411-5290. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.