Position: Senior Research Scientist, siRNA/mRNA design and drug discovery
Company: Nitto Biopharma, Inc.
Location: San Diego, CA
Reporting To: Sr. Director, Research
Position Objective: Nitto BioPharma Inc is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel RNA-based therapeutics for intractable diseases. We are currently seeking a talented, highly motivated and independent research scientist with extensive bioinformatics and RNA design experience to join our R&D team. The successful candidate is expected to lead the efforts of siRNA/mRNA drug design, to evaluate the activities of the newly designed RNA drugs in different biological systems, and, as one of key team members, to be actively engaged in the drug discovery activities to address unmet medical needs.

•    Lead the efforts on design, modification and optimization of siRNA and/or mRNA drugs for different therapeutic programs
•    Evaluate the activities of the siRNA and/or mRNA drugs using appropriate biological systems, screen and identify the leads
•    Develop novel approaches for siRNA and/or mRNA modifications for potential drug development 
•    Mine tangible drug targets from public databases and propose to drug discovery team
•    Present research progress internally and externally and write study reports. Contribute to preparation of IP and IND filings
•    Work closely with cross-functional team members on multiple projects simultaneously

•    Ph.D. in biology or chemistry with at least 8 years of therapeutic siRNA and/or mRNA design experience and established knowledge in the aera of design of pharmacologically active siRNA and/or mRNA
•    Deep knowledge of related public databases, algorithm and tools/software   
•    Demonstrated expertise in functional genomics, molecular phenotypic profiling, and chemistry
•    Thorough knowledge of working with siRNA and/or mRNA screening.
•    A good understanding of the basic pharmacology principles of nucleic acid therapies in term of their efficacy, pharmacokinetics and toxicity
•    Demonstrated innovation with track record in molecular design of novel RNA therapeutics with an ability to be creative and take a proactive approach to problem-solving
•    Ability and desire to work collaboratively on inter-disciplinary projects that span the chemical, analytical, formulation, and biological sciences
•    Strong publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals
•    Proven interpersonal and written/oral communication skills

***Level of the position is flexible and commensurate based on candidate’s experience

Office/Lab environment. Lifting to 20 pounds may be required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use their hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and telephone keypad or to write, as well as talk and hear. They are required to stand, walk or sit, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus.

Disclaimer: This job description reflects management's assignment of essential job duties; and nothing in this herein restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time