Principal Associate Scientist, In Vivo Pharmacology

Custom Field 1:  2358
Date:  Sep 4, 2025
Location: 

Cambridge, MA, US, 02142

 This role is considered On-Site.

 

Overview:

 

The Research Department at Alnylam is seeking a passionate and experienced Principal Associate Scientist to join our dynamic, fast-paced and interdisciplinary in vivo Pharmacology team within the RNAi Discovery Platform group.

The successful candidate will bring a robust and broad technical skillset and possess a deep scientific understanding of animal research and molecular biology.  The role will require strong interpersonal and organizational skills, the capacity to multi-task, and the ability to learn, master, and share new techniques. We particularly seek someone who is detail-oriented and who will flourish in a goal-driven team environment under tight deadlines and balancing multiple projects. This individual will join a dynamic and highly collaborative team. Experience and passion for working with animals is a must.

 

Summary of Key Responsibilities:

 

  • Design and execute in vivo studies to evaluate and characterize molecules for RNAi therapeutic delivery to a diverse array of tissues in a variety of animal models.
  • Conduct in vivo procedures in mice and rats, including therapeutic administration using established methodologies and comprehensive tissue collections and dissections.
  • Develop novel in vivo procedures and molecular assays, establish SOPs and train staff.
  • Conduct and troubleshoot assays such as qPCR, western blot, ELISA, and imaging to support in vivo studies.
  • Maintain safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Responsible for data entry and independent data analysis in timely, high-quality manner.
  • Prepare clearly articulated experimental reports and data presentations in group meetings as well as to broader audiences.
  • Adapt quickly to changing priorities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Effectively and proactively multi-task and operate in a team-based environment.
  • Communicate openly and directly within and across teams and management and demonstrate the ability to effectively manage conflict.

 

Qualifications:

  • BS/MS in Biology, Animal/Veterinary Sciences, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 4-8 years of post-degree research experience in an industrial or academic setting working with animals.
  • Excellent lab techniques and the ability to analyze, interpret, and present data and work independently are a prerequisite.
  • In vivo experience with rodents, including routine animal handling, multiple routes of dose administration, blood collection, dissection techniques, and necropsies.
  • Experience in specialized in vivo techniques such as direct tissue injections or collections (IT, ICV, ICM, IVT, IA, OP, PO etc.) is a plus.
  • Experience designing and running in vivo imaging (IVIS) studies is a plus.
  • Experience in molecular biology techniques including RNA/DNA/protein extraction, qPCR, Western blot, ELISA.
  • Ability to follow SOP, execute, analyze, interpret, and troubleshoot experiments.
  • Excellent organization, documentation, and record-keeping (compliance with ELN (Electronic Lab Notebook) guidelines) are required.
  • Must thrive in a team environment and possess excellent communication skills (both written and oral).

 

About Alnylam: Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: ALNY) has led the translation of RNA interference (RNAi) into a whole new class of innovative medicines with the potential to transform the lives of people afflicted with rare and more prevalent diseases. Based on Nobel Prize-winning science, RNAi therapeutics represent a powerful, clinically validated approach to treating diseases at their genetic source by “interfering” with mRNA that cause or contribute to disease. Since our founding in 2002, Alnylam has led the RNAi Revolution and continues to turn scientific possibility into reality.

 

Our culture: Our people-first culture is guided by our core values: fiercely innovative, open culture, purposeful urgency, passion for excellence, and commitment to people, and these values influence how we work and the business decisions we make. Thanks to feedback from our employees over the years, we’ve been fortunate to be named a top employer around the world. Alnylam is extremely proud to have been recognized as the #1 Large Employer by Boston Globe Top Places to Work in 2023 for the third consecutive year, one of Science Magazine’s Top Biopharma Employers, one of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2024 by Newsweek, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and UK – among others.

 

At Alnylam, we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. We are dedicated to building an environment where employees can feel that they belong, can bring their authentic selves to work, and achieve to their full potential. By empowering employees to embrace their unique differences at work, our business grows stronger with advanced and original thinking, allowing us to bring groundbreaking medicines to patients. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ethnicity, marital status, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristics prohibited by law.


Nearest Major Market: Cambridge
Nearest Secondary Market: Boston