Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry to join a growing research program in collaboration with KAUST (KSA) focused on targeted drug delivery systems for potent epigenetic inhibitors, with applications in human cancers and neurological diseases. The position is centered on the design, synthesis, and optimization of small molecules within a multidisciplinary and multi‑PI drug discovery environment encompassing synthesis, computer‑aided drug design, biophysical assay development, and cellular studies.

The successful candidate will play a central role in establishing the synthetic and medicinal chemistry capabilities of a newly formed research group, and help shape the direction, culture, and research output of the laboratory. The candidate is expected to drive the synthetic arm of the group and contribute to complex synthetic challenges with independence, productivity, and creativity. Expertise in medicinal chemistry and small molecule drug discovery is a major asset.

Interest in in‑vitro analyses and running cellular studies is a bonus.

• Design and execution of multi‑step organic synthesis for small‑molecule compounds
• Development and optimization of synthetic routes for efficient compound generation
• Application of modern synthetic methodologies, including amide coupling, Pd‑catalyzed cross‑coupling reactions, and organometallic chemistry (e.g., Grignard, lithium–halogen exchange), as well as more complex synthetic transformations
• Use of protection and deprotection strategies in complex molecule synthesis
• Purification of compounds using manual and automated chromatography systems (e.g., flash chromatography)
• Structural characterization using HPLC, NMR, and MS
• Maintenance of detailed experimental records and reproducible workflows
• Contribution to compound design and iterative optimization cycles
• Collaboration with interdisciplinary team members on downstream applications
• Preparation of reports, presentations, manuscripts, and scientific publications
• Contribution to grant writing, project proposals, and review articles

The ideal candidate should hold a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field and possess extensive hands‑on experience in multi‑step organic synthesis. The candidate should demonstrate strong proficiency in reaction design, route optimization, purification, and structural characterization (LC‑MS, HPLC, NMR). A high level of independence, creativity, and problem‑solving ability in synthetic chemistry is essential. Experience or interest in medicinal chemistry, small‑molecule drug discovery, or biologically relevant targets is considered a strong advantage, but not required.

Ph.D. in Chemistry (Organic, Synthetic, Medicinal Chemistry or related field).

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (Strong Synthetic Chemist, with interest in Drug Discovery).

Appointment is for 24 months. The package includes a competitive monthly salary and medical insurance in accordance with institutional regulations.