UNIV - Staff Scientist - Department of Biochemistry

UNIV - Staff Scientist I - Department of Biochemistry

Job Description Summary The laboratory of Dr. Dan Sprague has an opening for a collegial, motivated, and productive organic chemist to complement our growing laboratory and fill the role of Staff Scientist I starting after March 1, 2026. MUSC has an initiative to develop chemical biology and drug discovery efforts institution-wide, and the person hired into this position is meant to play a leading role in establishing these efforts and supporting faculty throughout MUSC.

• Lead projects related to the synthesis of chemical tools, probes, and small molecule preclinical candidates to support the needs of faculty across MUSC.
• Manage all aspects of daily chemistry laboratory function and regulatory compliance in conjunction with the principal investigator and the lab manager.
• Design synthetic routes, carry out synthesis, and fully characterize new molecules in a timely fashion.
• Advising and fostering collaborations with MUSC faculty regarding the development of small molecules.
• Keep meticulously organized notes and data.
• Assist in training new lab members in safety and chemistry techniques as needed.
• Participate in drafting manuscripts, grants, and patents; co-author as appropriate.

• Execute synthetic routes to provide small molecules (30%)
• Fully characterize small molecules (20%)
• Help execute small molecule screens as needed (10%)
• Help train junior lab members in safety and techniques (10%)
• Prepare exceptional, well‑organized daily laboratory records (10%)
• Participate in drafting manuscripts, grants, and patents (10%)
• Present research routinely to the lab at meetings and lead collaborative efforts across the institution (5%)
• Perform other tasks upon request to maintain smooth laboratory operation (5%)

Required Skills A minimum of a Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related subject with extensive experience and demonstrated productivity in multi‑step syntheses.

Preferred Skills High‑quality publications detailing synthesis efforts and demonstrated leadership skills. Postdoctoral experience is a plus but not required. Experience in high‑throughput screening, assay development, and/or mammalian cell culture is a benefit.

Ability to perform job functions in an upright, seated, or walking/mobile position as required. Ability to climb stairs, bend, twist, and perform repetitive motions with hands, arms, and legs. Ability to lift, carry, and move objects up to 50 lbs. Good vision, hearing, and peripheral vision; ability to work in all temperature extremes and isolated areas. Additional requirements include obtaining and maintaining a valid driver’s license, computer literacy, rotating shifts, overtime, and learning new processes, tools, and equipment.

The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.

Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees.