Demo

Scientist, CNS Biology Research

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Cambridge, MA Full Time
POSTED ON 8/13/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/18/2026
Overview

We are seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Scientist to join our CNS Biology Research team. The ideal candidate will bring a strong scientific background in motor neuron diseases and a deep understanding of the underlying disease biology and therapeutic landscape. They will thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and demonstrate the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts across functions. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team, the Scientist will be responsible for identifying and validating novel drug targets, championing early programs, and supporting programs as they advance through clinical stages.

This position is onsite, located in Cambridge, MA.

Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to Alnylam’s growing pipeline by identifying new siRNA drug-targets that are based on human genetics, literature, academic collaborations, genomic approaches, etc. across the neurodegenerative space.
  • Design and execute proof of concept experiments in animal and in vitro iPSC disease models.
  • Design studies, coordinate activities, and lead from the bench.
  • Serve as Biology Lead on select neurodegenerative/neuromuscular programs, overseeing lead discovery activities for the selection of drug candidates for further development.
  • Work with multifunctional teams to shepherd a drug candidate through the lead selection and development process to the clinic.
  • Support programs through CTA/IND filing processes.
  • Manage relationships with contract research organizations (CROs) and/or academic collaborators, including development of research plans and data analysis.
  • Mentor junior scientists.
  • Collaborate and communicate results with key stakeholders throughout organization and external partners

Qualifications

  • PhD in biology or biomedical sciences-related field.
  • Post doc in academia or industry or 1-2 years of experience preferred.
  • Individuals with expertise in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • Strong publication record.
  • In vitro technical skills including RNA and protein quantification, high-content image-based and functional assays related to disease biology, and single-cell RNA sequencing.
  • Thorough understanding of relevant in vivo mammalian disease models strongly preferred, with experience in intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections, necropsy, behavioral analysis, ex vivo tissue processing, and downstream analysis including molecular and histological assessments.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to proactively multitask are a must.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment.
  • Genuine curiosity for learning new biology and a passion for hands-on laboratory work.

U.S. Pay Range

$110,400.00 - $165,600.00

The pay range reflects the full-time base salary range we expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. Base pay will be determined based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education. This role is eligible for an annual short-term incentive award (e.g., bonus or sales incentive) and an annual long-term incentive award (e.g., equity).

Alnylam’s robust Total Rewards package is designed to support your overall health and well-being. We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, a lifestyle reimbursement program, flexible spending and health savings accounts and a 401(k)with a generous company match. Eligible employees enjoy paid time off, wellness days, holidays, and two company-wide recharge breaks. We also offer generous family resources and leave. Our commitment to your well-being reflects our belief that caring for our people fuels the impact we create together.

Learn more about these and additional benefits offered by Alnylam by visiting the Benefits section of the Careers website: https://www.alnylam.com/careers

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.

Salary : $110,400 - $165,600

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