Principal Research Scientist I, RNA Platform

The Discovery Research group is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Principal Research Scientist I to join the RNA Platform team in Worcester this role you will serve as an independent scientific leader driving the design development and evaluation of novel nucleic acid payloads with the goal of advancing next-generation RNA therapeutics. You will play a pivotal role in translating scientific concepts into tangible research progress while contributing to a collaborative and fast-paced research environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on the design production and functional evaluation of nucleic acid payload modalities including mRNA circular RNA (circRNA) single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and emerging platforms.
• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize strategies for sustained payload expression in target cell types leveraging a strong foundation in molecular biology.
• Drive payload innovation by identifying evaluating and implementing cutting-edge approaches to improve payload performance stability and therapeutic applicability.
• May involve supervision and mentorship of a small team of 12 research scientists providing scientific guidance experimental oversight and professional development support.
• Take ownership of team deliverables and ensure high-quality reproducible science with clearly documented results and timely progress.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to advance integrated project goals.
• Communicate research findings clearly through internal presentations scientific reports and contributions to publications and patent disclosures.
• Contribute to strategic planning by identifying research opportunities proposing hypotheses and helping shape the scientific direction of the mRNA platform.

Qualifications :

Required:

• BS MS or PhD with typically 14 (BS) 12 (MS) or 6 (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with multiple payload modalities including at least two of the following: mRNA circRNA ssDNA or analogous platforms.
• Deep expertise in payload design principles in vitro production methods and functional testing assays.
• Proven ability to develop and optimize methods for sustained gene expression in mammalian cell systems.
• Demonstrated ability to independently drive research projects from concept to execution.
• Experience leading or mentoring junior scientists.
• Excellent scientific communication skills both written and verbal.

Preferred:

• Experience with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) or other delivery systems for nucleic acid payloads.
• Familiarity with IVT (in vitro transcription) optimization RNA modification chemistries or circRNA splicing strategies.
• Track record of publications patents or presentations in relevant fields.

Additional Information :

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of thisposting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic locationand we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future. 

• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation holidays sick) medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

• This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs. 

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus commissionincentive benefits or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Companys sole and absolute discretion unless anduntil paid and may be modified at the Companys sole and absolute discretion consistent with applicable law.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity driving innovation transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

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Work :

No

Employment Type :

Full-time