Co-op: Small Scale Guide RNA Chemistry

Fall 2026 Co-op: Small Scale Guide RNA Chemistry

Co-op Assignment Overview

Prime Medicine is seeking a Co-op for the Fall 2026 semester to join our guide RNA chemistry team. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemistry or biochemistry and will contribute to the synthesis, cleavage and deprotection, purification, and analysis of long guide RNA oligonucleotides. In this role, you will gain comprehensive, hands-on experience in solid-phase synthesis, purification, desalting, lyophilization, and analysis of long oligonucleotides in direct support of our prime editing programs.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support solid-phase synthesis of oligonucleotides using automated DNA/RNA synthesizers, including the Mermade12
• Assist with HPLC purification and UPLC/LC-MS analysis of research-scale long oligonucleotides
• Prepare buffers and solutions for guide RNA purification and analysis
• Track and manage inventory of chemicals, reagents, and consumables, including coordinating orders as needed
• Assist with the maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment, including synthesizers, SpeedVacs, lyophilizers, and HPLC instrumentation
• Maintain thorough and accurate records in an electronic laboratory notebook (ELN); track progress, analyze and interpret data, and present findings to both the immediate team and cross-functional stakeholders
• Conduct all laboratory work safely and efficiently, upholding a safe working environment for all colleagues

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field; a foundational understanding of organic chemistry is preferred
• Prior hands-on experience in a chemistry or biochemistry laboratory
• High degree of self-motivation and adaptability in a fast-paced environment, with strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Proficiency in common computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Strong troubleshooting and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in nucleic acid chemistry
• Hands-on experience with HPLC, UPLC, and/or LC-MS instrumentation

What We Offer

• A collaborative, cutting-edge team committed to mentorship and professional networking
• Full reimbursement of monthly commuting costs, including MBTA, Commuter Rail, Bluebikes, and more
• Participation in regular seminars featuring industry experts
• Full access to employee programming, including learning and development initiatives, social events, and more

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 several factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education.

NOTE: We are currently not considering co-op candidates outside of the local Boston/Cambridge area.