What are the responsibilities and job description for the Small Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, Process Development Co-op (Fall 2025) position at Wave Life Sciences?
About Wave:
Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Our RNA medicines platform, PRISM, combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders. Our toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities includes editing, splicing, RNA interference and antisense silencing, providing us with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology. Our diversified pipeline includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Huntington’s disease, as well as a preclinical program in obesity. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible”, we are leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease.
Overview:
Wave Life Sciences seeks a highly motivated co-op student to join its team of scientists in Lexington, Massachusetts. This co-op student will gain exposure to areas of oligonucleotide synthesis, formulation, purification, and analysis. The co-op will be trained in a variety of laboratory techniques and instrumentation, making this an excellent learning opportunity for future entrance into industry or academia. This is an ideal position for any student with strong organizational skills and attention to detail who thrives in a team-oriented, fast-paced and multi-disciplinary biotech environment. Completion of coursework in organic chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry with laboratory experience is preferred.
Scope:
Wave Life Sciences seeks a motivated Co-op, Small Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, Process Development, to join our team in Lexington, MA. This is an ideal position for an individual with an interest in oligonucleotide synthesis who thrives in a team-oriented, fast-paced, biotech environment. This candidate will be responsible for fulfilling oligo requests to support Discovery-related activities and ensuring sample quality.
The Co-op will:
- Prepare reagents and amidites for oligonucleotide synthesis
- Learn about solid phase synthesis and operate a Mermade192X synthesizer
- Purify oligonucleotides by preparative HPLC
- Analyze oligonucleotides by LC-MS, UV and pH
- Learn additional instrumentation including lyophilizers, speed vacs, nanodrop and UPLC
- Gain exposure to formulation of oligonucleotide samples for in vitro biological assays
- Gain exposure to the use of an automated liquid handler for high throughput plate-based sample preparation
- Record and present data in an electronic laboratory notebook (ELN)
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate science program in Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology or related field
- Coursework in organic chemistry is required, biochemistry and analytical chemistry is a plus
- Understanding of laboratory best practices and safety protocols
- Attention to detail and well organized
- Laboratory experience with common laboratory operations including pipetting, weighing, and centrifugation preferred
- Enthusiasm for DNA/RNA therapeutic development
