Peptide Synthesis Chemist

Based in Morrisville, North Carolina, Synoligo Biotechnologies is a contract research and development organization specializing in complex and highly modified oligonucleotides. We partner with academic researchers, biotechnology companies, and pharmaceutical organizations to advance research, diagnostic, and therapeutic programs through integrated in silico design, custom synthesis, and lead-candidate screening—from early discovery through preclinical development. By combining deep oligonucleotide expertise, flexible customization, scalable U.S.-based operations, and responsive service, Synoligo helps customers move innovative programs forward with greater speed and confidence. Join our team and help unleash the power of oligo customization to advance human health.

We are seeking an experienced Peptide Chemist to lead and execute peptide synthesis projects from design and feasibility assessment through purification, characterization, documentation, and delivery. The successful candidate will bring at least five years of direct, hands-on peptide synthesis experience and a strong command of solid-phase peptide synthesis, purification, analytical methods, and troubleshooting. This role requires scientific rigor, careful documentation, and effective collaboration in a fast-paced contract research environment.

What you’ll do in this role

Core responsibilities

· Design and execute peptide synthesis strategies, primarily using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), for routine and complex peptide targets.

· Evaluate peptide sequences for synthetic feasibility, identify technical risks, and recommend practical approaches for difficult, modified, or constrained peptides.

· Perform resin selection, coupling, deprotection, cleavage, precipitation, and related synthesis operations using appropriate chemistries and equipment.

· Develop and optimize synthesis conditions to improve yield, purity, reproducibility, and scalability.

· Purify crude peptides using preparative and semi-preparative chromatography, including reverse-phase HPLC.

· Characterize peptide products using analytical HPLC, LC-MS, mass spectrometry, and other applicable techniques.

· Troubleshoot synthesis, purification, and analytical challenges using sound scientific judgment and systematic experimentation.

· Maintain accurate, contemporaneous experimental records and prepare clear technical summaries, batch records, and customer-facing data packages.

Project leadership and collaboration

· Manage multiple peptide projects and priorities while meeting quality, timeline, and customer requirements.

· Collaborate with analytical, quality, operations, and commercial colleagues to plan work, resolve technical issues, and communicate project status.

· Contribute to technology transfer, scale-up, method improvement, and implementation of efficient laboratory workflows.

· Support laboratory safety, equipment readiness, inventory control, and proper handling and disposal of chemicals and peptide reagents.

· Provide technical guidance to junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative, accountable, and continuous-improvement culture.

What you bring to the table

· Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline is required; an advanced degree is preferred.

· At least five years of direct, hands-on peptide synthesis experience is required.

· Demonstrated expertise in solid-phase peptide synthesis, including sequence evaluation, resin selection, coupling chemistry, deprotection, cleavage, and isolation.

· Hands-on experience purifying peptides by preparative or semi-preparative reverse-phase HPLC.

· Hands-on experience analyzing peptides by analytical HPLC and LC-MS or mass spectrometry, with the ability to interpret results and diagnose impurities.

· Proven ability to troubleshoot difficult peptide sequences and optimize synthesis and purification methods.

· Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining complete and accurate documentation.

· Clear written and verbal communication skills, a collaborative working style, and a strong commitment to laboratory safety and product quality.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person