Principal Scientist, RNA Purification Process Development

Working with UsChallenging. Meaningful. Life-changing. Those aren’t words that are usually associated with a job. But working at Bristol Myers Squibb is anything but usual. Here, uniquely interesting work happens every day, in every department. From optimizing a production line to the latest breakthroughs in cell therapy, this is work that transforms the lives of patients, and the careers of those who do it. You’ll get the chance to grow and thrive through opportunities uncommon in scale and scope, alongside high-achieving teams. Take your career farther than you thought possible.Bristol Myers Squibb recognizes the importance of balance and flexibility in our work environment. We offer a wide variety of competitive benefits, services and programs that provide our employees with the resources to pursue their goals, both at work and in their personal lives. Read more: careers.bms.com/working-with-us.Position SummaryThe RNA Purification Process Development function plays a central role in designing efficient, robust, and scalable manufacturing processes. By combining deep scientific expertise with enabling technologies and strong cross-functional partnerships, RNA Process Development delivers transformative innovation across the pipeline.The Principal Scientist is a scientific leader responsible for driving RNA drug substance purification development strategies, influencing cross-functional decisions, and delivering high-impact outcomes across increasingly diverse portfolio.The Principal Scientist provides scientific leadership for drug substance programs spanning early- to late-stage development across circular and linear mRNA modalities. This role encompasses hands-on and technical leadership contributions, addressing critical challenges by driving sound experimental execution and manufacturing support. The candidate should be driven by developing and characterizing chromatography and filtration steps for improving the yield, quality and robustness of purification process steps.Key ResponsibilitiesScientific LeadershipLead RNA purification development strategy for drug substance programs across a portfolio that may include circular RNA and mRNA, spanning early- and late-stage development.Provide strategic oversight of process development, and manufacturability, while contributing hands-on scientific input where needed to resolve critical technical challenges.Apply first-principles approaches to assess and mitigate risks, defining mitigation strategies and making critical scientific recommendations at key program milestonesRepresent drug substance development strategies in cross-functional CMC teams, ensuring alignment across analytical development, engineering, regulatory affairs, and supply chainPeople Leadership & Talent DevelopmentSet clear priorities and objectives for Purification PD in alignment with portfolio goals and RNA PD’s broader organizational strategyMentor and develop scientists across RNA Purification PD, contributing to a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learningFoster an inclusive, high-performance team environment built on psychological safety, accountability, and collaboration Innovation & Organizational ContributionPropose and lead departmental initiatives that improve scientific workflows, sustainability practices, and operational efficiencyBuild and maintain collaborative relationships with external academic institutions and industry partners to accelerate scientific advancementRepresent capabilities at internal reviews, scientific conferences, and through peer-reviewed publicationsCross-Functional CollaborationServe as a key scientific voice in cross-functional CMC teams and broader enterprise forumsPartner with functional areas - including research, analytical development, engineering, and drug product development Collaborate with RNA organization leadership to drive strategic alignment across the portfolioQualifications & ExperienceDegree in Bio/Chemical Engineering, Bio/Chemistry, or related field MS with 8+ years’ or PhD with 3+ years’ experience in science related disciplinesExpertise in chromatography, filtration, and innovative separation unit operationsWorking knowledge of statistical design of experiments (DoE) and analysis of multivariate dataExperience with performing and interpreting RNA analytics and biophysical characterization techniques for RNA such as HPLC, CE, NGS, & gel electrophoresisKnowledge of cGMP, ICH, regulatory guidelines and QbD principles as they apply to risk management and clinical developmentDemonstrated background of providing technical support for clinical manufacturing processes, including support of process investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives Knowledge of in vitro transcription reactions and the resulting downstream feed is preferred Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiencesAbility to lead complex projects independently and influence decisions across matrixed teams and governance forums.Prior experience managing, mentoring, or developing scientists in an industrial settingIf you come across a role that intrigues you but doesn’t perfectly line up with your resume, we encourage you to apply anyway. You could be one step away from work that will transform your life and career.Compensation Overview:Cambridge - MA - US: $153,660 - $186,203 The starting compensation range(s) for this role are listed above for a full-time employee (FTE) basis. Additional incentive cash and stock opportunities (based on eligibility) may be available. The starting pay rate takes into account characteristics of the job, such as required skills, where the job is performed, the employee’s work schedule, job-related knowledge, and experience. Final, individual compensation will be decided based on demonstrated experience. Eligibility for specific benefits listed on our careers site may vary based on the job a