Scientist - Synthetic Chemistry & Nucleic Acid Delivery Technologies

Scientist - Synthetic Chemistry & Nucleic Acid Delivery Technologies

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Vilnius, Lithuania

Job Overview

We are looking for an early-career Scientist, Synthetic Chemist to support the synthesis, purification, characterization, and scale-up of novel lipids and other molecules used in the development of nucleic acid delivery reagents.

In this role, you will work hands-on in the laboratory, support the development of synthetic routes, perform organic synthesis, purify and characterize compounds, and contribute to research and development activities. You will also gain exposure to process scale-up, analytical method development, and technology transfer activities under the guidance of experienced scientists.

This role is a strong fit for someone with a solid foundation in organic or synthetic chemistry who wants to grow in a product development environment. You do not need to be an expert in every area listed — we are looking for strong chemistry fundamentals, practical laboratory skills, accuracy, curiosity, and motivation to learn.

You will collaborate with R&D, Process Development, Analytical Development, Formulation, Manufacturing, and Quality teams, so teamwork, clear communication, and openness to working with different functions are important for success.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design, execution, and optimization of synthetic routes for novel lipids, intermediates, and small molecules supporting nucleic acid delivery technologies;
• Perform multi-step organic synthesis, reaction optimization, purification, and characterization of compounds;
• Contribute to small-scale and scale-up activities to produce materials for research, development, and manufacturing;
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques such as HPLC/UHPLC, LC-MS, NMR, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy;
• Support troubleshooting of synthetic or analytical challenges together with senior scientists and cross-functional teams;
• Contribute to the development of robust, reproducible, and scalable synthetic processes;
• Prepare and maintain accurate electronic laboratory notebooks, technical reports, SOPs, protocols, batch records, and development documentation;
• Support technical documentation and activities related to process transfer to manufacturing and new product introductions;
• Gain exposure to analytical method development, qualification, and validation activities;
• Follow laboratory safety practices, GLP/GMP requirements where applicable, and data integrity standards;
• Collaborate with R&D, Process Development, Analytical Development, Formulation, Manufacturing, and Quality teams.

Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline;
• 0–2 years of relevant academic, internship, or industry experience, including thesis work, research projects, laboratory practice, or early industry experience;
• Hands-on experience or strong academic background in synthetic organic chemistry;
• Exposure to multi-step synthesis, purification, and characterization of small molecules, lipids, or related compounds;
• Working knowledge of analytical characterization techniques such as HPLC/UHPLC, LC-MS, NMR, IR, or UV-Vis spectroscopy;
• Good written and spoken English skills.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong interest in synthetic chemistry and nucleic acid delivery technologies;
• Hands-on laboratory mindset and willingness to learn new techniques;
• Scientific problem-solving approach and curiosity to understand how reactions, materials, and processes behave;
• Accuracy, responsibility, and attention to detail;
• Good documentation and organizational skills;
• Ability to follow procedures and work safely in a laboratory environment;
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills;
• Clear verbal communication and ability to share technical information with different teams;
• Initiative, adaptability, and motivation to grow in a fast-paced product development environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic understanding of nucleic acid delivery systems or lipid nanoparticles;
• Interest in analytical method development and validation concepts;
• Exposure to GMP/GLP or regulated laboratory environments (academic or industry);
• Interest in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical product development;
• Experience working in a research or industrial laboratory environment during studies or internships.