Research Professional III

Position Title: Research Professional III

Department: Pharmacy-Pharm & Biomed Sci

This position will be involved in the design and synthesis of nucleoside and nucleotide analogs, including the synthesis of small molecules for the antiviral and anticancer drug discovery program. Currently, we are running various projects for the invention of new antiviral drugs against several life‑threatening viruses, and an anticancer drug discovery program for colon and pancreatic cancer. This position will help to execute our future planned projects.

• Uphold and promote high ethical standards, scientific integrity, and productivity in support of the antiviral and anticancer drug discovery programs within the College of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia.
• Design, synthesize, and optimize small molecules, nucleoside analogs, and nucleotide analogs, including the execution of complex, multi‑step synthetic pathways to evaluate biological activity as potential drug candidates.
• Provide scientific leadership in medicinal chemistry and antiviral/anticancer drug discovery through independent project execution and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, including internal and external research partners.
• Conduct structural characterization and analysis of organic compounds using NMR, mass spectrometry, LC-MS, UV, and IR spectroscopy.
• Perform purification of organic compounds using HPLC, flash chromatography, and normal‑phase silica gel chromatography.
• Apply advanced organic chemistry expertise to troubleshoot and resolve synthetic challenges across multiple projects; conduct comprehensive literature searches (e.g., Sci Finder) and maintain awareness of emerging methods and discoveries relevant to ongoing research.
• Ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance, including chemical inventory management, hazardous waste handling, and proper use of safety systems (e.g., Chematrix/Chem Watch), in alignment with UGA policies and EPA regulations.
• Maintain laboratory operations, including routine maintenance of equipment, development and revision of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and coordination of instrument functionality.
• Train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and research best practices.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed journals in medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, and drug discovery.
• Present research findings and progress updates through regular lab meetings, written reports, and discussions with the Principal Investigator; participate in meetings with pharmaceutical industry collaborators as applicable.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory notebooks and supporting documentation in accordance with research and compliance standards.
• Develop, generate, and maintain experimental models and protocols, including the design and molecular modeling of small molecules in support of the antiviral drug discovery program.
• Guide students in the analysis and interpretation of antiviral and anticancer assay data, supporting their development of technical and analytical skills.
• Maintain laboratory safety standards, including chemical management, required records, and standard operating protocols.
• Manage laboratory purchasing activities, including ordering supplies, tracking deliveries, and maintaining accurate chemical and equipment inventories.
• Monitor laboratory activities to ensure compliance with safety regulations, institutional policies, and best laboratory practices.
• Participate in research project planning and collaborate with faculty investigators and affiliated laboratories to develop and advance new research initiatives.
• Is driving a responsibility of this position? No
• Is this a Position of Trust? Yes
• Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No
• Does this position require a P‑Card? No
• Is having a P‑Card an essential function of this position? No
• Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No
• Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records,…