Principal Research Scientist I, RNA Platform

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on the design, production, and functional evaluation of nucleic acid payload modalities, including mRNA, circular RNA (circRNA), single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), and emerging platforms.
• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize strategies for sustained payload expression in target cell types, leveraging a strong foundation in molecular biology.
• Drive payload innovation by identifying, evaluating, and implementing cutting-edge approaches to improve payload performance, stability, and therapeutic applicability.
• May involve supervision and mentorship of a small team of 1-2 research scientists, providing scientific guidance, experimental oversight, and professional development support.
• Take ownership of team deliverables and ensure high-quality, reproducible science with clearly documented results and timely progress.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to advance integrated project goals.
• Communicate research findings clearly through internal presentations, scientific reports, and contributions to publications and patent disclosures.
• Contribute to strategic planning by identifying research opportunities, proposing hypotheses, and helping shape the scientific direction of the mRNA platform.
• Required:
• BS, MS, or PhD with typically 14+ (BS), 12+ (MS), or 6+ (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with multiple payload modalities, including at least two of the following: mRNA, circRNA, ssDNA, or analogous platforms.
• Deep expertise in payload design principles, in vitro production methods, and functional testing assays.
• Proven ability to develop and optimize methods for sustained gene expression in mammalian cell systems.
• Demonstrated ability to independently drive research projects from concept to execution.
• Experience leading or mentoring junior scientists.
• Excellent scientific communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Preferred:
• Experience with lipid nanoparticle (LNP) or other delivery systems for nucleic acid payloads.
• Familiarity with IVT (in vitro transcription) optimization, RNA modification chemistries, or circRNA splicing strategies.
• Track record of publications, patents, or presentations in relevant fields.
• Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law:
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
• This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs.
• AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.
• US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html
• US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:
• https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html

Benefits

Additional Information

The Discovery Research group is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Principal Research Scientist I to join the RNA Platform team in Worcester, MA. In this role, you will serve as an independent scientific leader, driving the design, development, and evaluation of novel nucleic acid payloads with the goal of advancing next-generation RNA therapeutics. You will play a pivotal role in translating scientific concepts into tangible research progress while contributing to a collaborative and fast-paced research environment.

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