Senior Scientist, Next Wave, Target Discovery & Validation – Alnylam Pharmaceuticals – USA

Job
USA
September 15, 2025

Job Overview

Job Description

The Research Department at Alnylam is seeking a highly motivated and creative scientist to join our Next Wave Target Discovery and Validation team. Our mission is to discover and experimentally validate novel RNAi therapeutics targets in disease areas with high unmet need. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape the strategical direction of the next generation of RNAi medicine. With breadth responsibilities spanning from target discovery throughout early clinical development. You will be collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams of colleagues from Alnylam human genetics, translational science, RNAi platform, delivery sciences, clinical development and new product commercialization.

This is an on-site position located in Cambridge, MA.

Summary of Key Responsibilities

  • Identify and prioritize novel RNAi targets via human genetics, literature review, systems biology and experimental approaches
  • Design and execute in vitro and in vivo studies to validate candidate targets and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action
  • Analyze, interpret and present scientific data in internal meetings and contribute to strategic planning discussions
  • Initiate and lead the exploration on new areas of interest for RNAi therapeutics
  • Lead collaboration with external partners, including partners, CROs and academic institutions; including setting project strategy, design, planning, data interpretation and decision making
  • Collaborate and communicate results with key stakeholders throughout the organization
  • Manage and mentor junior scientists and associate scientists

Qualifications

  • PhD in biology and biomedical science related field with >6 years postgraduate experience
  • 3+ years of biotech/pharma industry experience is preferred
  • The applicant must have strong scientific curiosity with a flexible mindset and passionate about learning and applying knowledge to new areas
  • Proven expertise in developing and characterizing in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, with a strong understanding of disease biology, pathogenesis and mechanisms of action
  • Familiarity with the application of genetics and genomics approaches (e.g., GWAS) to inform biological understanding is a strong plus
  • Experience in the field of physiology, muscle biology, cardiology and cardiometabolic diseases is strongly encouraged to apply
  • Thrive in a fast-paced team environment and possess excellent communication skills (both written and oral).

About Alnylam: We are the leader in RNAi therapeutics – a revolutionary approach with the potential to transform the lives of people with rare and common diseases. Built on Nobel Prize-winning science, Alnylam has delivered the breakthroughs that made RNAi therapeutics possible and are just at the beginning of what’s possible. Our deep pipeline, late-stage programs, and bold vision reflect our core values: fierce innovation, passion for excellence, purposeful urgency, open culture and commitment to people. We’re proud to be a globally recognized top employer, where an authentic, inclusive culture and breakthrough thinking fuel one another.

At Alnylam, we commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their sex, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, pregnancy status or related conditions, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital or familial status, political affiliation, age, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law. Alnylam is an E-Verify Employer.