Oligonucleotide Analytical Chemistry Process Development Co-op (Spring 2026)

Wave Life Sciences is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Our RNA medicines platform, PRISM, combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders. Our toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities includes editing, splicing, RNA interference and antisense silencing, providing us with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology. Our diversified pipeline includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and Huntington’s disease, as well as a preclinical program in obesity. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible”, we are leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease.

Wave Life Sciences USA, an oligonucleotide therapeutics company, seeks a highly motivated co-op student to join its Process Development team in Lexington, Massachusetts.  The co-op will gain exposure to oligonucleotide synthesis, analytical methods for analysis, and formulations. Co-ops will be trained in a variety of laboratory techniques and instrumentation that are used throughout the pharmaceutical and biotech industry.  This is an ideal position for any student, including those looking for their first co-op. The candidate should have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and thrive in a team-oriented and fast-paced environment. Analytical chemistry or biochemistry laboratory experience is preferred. 

Responsibilities

• Prepare buffer and samples for analysis
• Perform analytical QC of oligonucleotides by UV, endotoxin, osmolality, pH, LC, and LC-MS
• Assist with various solubility and stability studies
• Assist with method development activities and data analysis using a variety of software platforms
• Assist with management of oligonucleotide inventory
• Assist with maintenance and troubleshooting of lab equipment such as LC and LC-MS instrumentation
• Document experiments in an electronic notebook 

Skills and Competencies

• Strict adherence to lab safety protocols including PPE
• Effective communication skills and ability to present experimental results within a small team

Wave Life Sciences provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Wave Life Sciences complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Wave Life Sciences expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Wave Life Sciences’ employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

We value our relationships with professional recruitment firms. To protect the interests of all parties and given the large volume of inquiries received from third-party placement agencies, we are not able to respond to all agency inquiries. We do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates for current or future positions. Submission of unsolicited resumes in advance of a signed agreement between our company and a placement agency does not create an implied obligation and, if an unsolicited candidate represented by a placement agency is hired, we are not obligated to pay a fee. Only approved recruitment firms will be allowed to provide services to Wave Life Sciences, USA.