Analytical Chemist

About the role

We are seeking an ambitious, detail‑oriented Analytical Chemist to join our fast‑paced Cambridge lab. You will purify and characterise novel mRNA constructs and chemically modified oligonucleotides, supporting synthetic chemists, molecular biologists and formulation scientists.

Key responsibilities

• Execute semi‑preparative and preparative HPLC methods to purify synthetic oligonucleotides, modified xRNA constructs and mRNA samples.
• Operate and maintain analytical HPLC and LC‑MS instruments to assess purity, concentration and structural integrity of RNA constructs.
• Prepare samples and perform routine LC‑MS analysis to confirm chemical modifications and sequence identity.
• Conduct downstream processing including desalting, lyophilisation, gel analysis, concentration determination and aliquot preparation.
• Perform routine instrument maintenance, system suitability checks and basic troubleshooting for HPLC and LC‑MS systems.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, summarise analytical results and communicate data to cross‑functional chemistry and biology teams.

Required profile

• Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a closely related discipline.
• Hands‑on industrial or internship experience operating HPLC and LC‑MS instruments.
• Basic knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry, synthetic oligonucleotides or RNA concepts.
• Familiarity with chromatographic techniques such as reversed‑phase, ion‑pair RP or anion exchange.
• Strong problem‑solving ability and attention to detail in documentation.

Required skills

• HPLC (semi‑preparative and preparative)
• LC‑MS
• Reversed‑phase, ion‑pair and anion‑exchange chromatography
• Nucleic acid chemistry and oligonucleotide purification
• Lyophilisation and gel analysis