Computational Chemist, Durham at RTI International Durham, NC

Computational Chemist

Durham, NC

The Center for Drug Discovery (CDD) is a multi‑disciplinary center comprised of chemists and pharmacologists working together to discover new therapeutics in a non‑profit setting. Funding comes from federal agencies such as the NIH and FDA, as well as various commercial entities. CDD is expanding its federal and commercial computational chemistry offerings and is seeking a Computational Chemist to join a team of established researchers.

The role focuses primarily on G‑protein‑coupled receptors (GPCRs) but broadly supports diverse molecular targets.

• Integrate into RTI’s drug discovery business through in‑silico federal/commercial research activities.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and pharmacologists as a technical expert.
• Assist with ongoing NIH‑funded grants and solicit new funding as appropriate.
• Assist with management of in‑house chemical databases.
• Manage collaborations and build strong relationships with peers and clients.

• PhD with 5 years of experience in chemistry, medicinal chemistry, physical chemistry, pharmaceutical science, or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of and experience in drug discovery research.
• Background in the theory underlying computational investigations (molecular‑mechanics, quantum‑mechanics, thermochemistry).
• Experience writing and compiling computational‑chemistry code (C++, Java, Fortran).
• Proficiency with Linux/Unix platforms and scripting/coding.
• Preferred:
  Experience in machine learning/AI supporting medicinal chemistry drug discovery.
• Preferred:
  Experience in structure‑based and ligand‑based drug design.
• Preferred:
  Experience with in‑silico ADMET assessments using computational methods.

• Competitive base salary within the range $116,000–$142,000.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• Merit based annual increases and bonus opportunities.
• Robust recognition program.
• Health, dental, life, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings program.
• Paid parental leave for all parents.
• Financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments.
• Financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities.
• Employee assistance program.
• Support for healthy work‑life balance.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. RTI accepts applications from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Minimum/Range $116,000–$142,000