Principal Scientist, Target Validation and Translational Research

Custom Field 1:  2520
Date:  Oct 10, 2025
Location: 

Cambridge, MA, US, 02142

 

Overview:

 

The Research Department at Alnylam is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to join an interdisciplinary team dedicated to broaden our oligonucleotide platform and extrahepatic delivery. The ideal candidate will have expertise in skeletal muscle or cardiovascular research, with previous experience with oligonucleotide therapeutics (siRNAs, ASOs, etc). The role requires strong interpersonal skills, the capacity to multi-task, and the ability to learn and master new techniques. Responsibilities span from discovery through clinical development, including experimental work in preclinical disease models, leading the Development Candidate discovery efforts, and working with multidisciplinary teams to support preclinical and clinical development. We particularly seek someone who is detail-oriented and who will flourish in a goal-driven team environment under tight deadlines.

 

This position is onsite and will be primarily located at 675 W Kendall St Cambridge MA.

 

Responsibilities:

 

  • Design and execute proof-of-concept nucleic acid therapeutic experiments in animal and in vitro disease models to support targets at various stages of development.
  • Work closely with Alnylam’s Target Discovery, Human Genetics, Multi-Omics, Platform, Early Development and Clinical Research teams to bring new therapeutics into clinical development.
  • Develop assays to monitor target engagement/pharmacodynamic responses and quantify oligonucleotide therapeutics.
  • Willingness to learn and execute new techniques to support in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Initiate and manage relationships with contract research organizations (CROs) and/or academic collaborators, including the development of research plans and data analysis.
  • Mentor junior scientists.
  • Collaborate and communicate results with key stakeholders throughout the organization.

 

Qualifications:

 

  • PhD in Immunology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field. Post-doctoral experience plus 3 to 6 years industry experience, or 6 – 9 years of industry experience post PhD.
  • Expertise in implementing molecular biology assays for RNA/DNA/protein quantification (qPCR, dPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, immunoprecipitations).
  • Prior experience designing, leading and interpreting in vivo rodent and non-human primate studies.
  • Previous experience with oligonucleotide therapeutics (ASOs, siRNAs, etc) with a strong background in pre-mRNA processing, including transcription, splicing, and nuclear export.
  • Familiarity with muscle and cardiac pathophysiology and muscle/cardiac in vitro models preferred.
  • Strong publication record.
  • A successful candidate will have a track record of working on and leading teams, an interest in new biology, and a strong set of lab skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and excellent communication skills (written and oral) are required.

 

 

U.S. Pay Range

$142,800.00 - $214,200.00

 

The pay range reflects the full-time base salary range we expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. Base pay will be determined based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education. This role is eligible for an annual short-term incentive award (e.g., bonus or sales incentive) and an annual long-term incentive award (e.g., equity).

 

Alnylam’s robust Total Rewards package is designed to support your overall health and well-being. We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a lifestyle reimbursement program, flexible spending and health savings accounts and a 401(k)with a generous company match. Eligible employees enjoy paid time off, wellness days, holidays, and two company-wide recharge breaks. We also offer generous family resources and leave. Our commitment to your well-being reflects our belief that caring for our people fuels the impact we create together.

 

Learn more about these and additional benefits offered by Alnylam by visiting the Benefits section of the Careers website: https://www.alnylam.com/careers

 

About Alnylam

 

We are the leader in RNAi therapeutics – a revolutionary approach with the potential to transform the lives of people with rare and common diseases. Built on Nobel Prize-winning science, Alnylam has delivered the breakthroughs that made RNAi therapeutics possible and are just at the beginning of what’s possible. Our deep pipeline, late-stage programs, and bold vision reflect our core values: fierce innovation, passion for excellence, purposeful urgency, open culture and commitment to people. We're proud to be a globally recognized top employer, where an authentic, inclusive culture and breakthrough thinking fuel one another.

 

At Alnylam, we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their sex, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, pregnancy status or related conditions, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital or familial status, political affiliation, age, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law. Alnylam is an E-Verify Employer.

 


Nearest Major Market: Cambridge
Nearest Secondary Market: Boston