Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab

Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab at CEDARS-SINAI summary:
The Postdoctoral Scientist will conduct advanced research in drug discovery with a focus on small-molecule design, synthesis, and structural analysis using spectroscopic and mass spectrometry methods. The role involves independent experimental design, data interpretation, collaboration with team members, and contributing to scientific publications and grant proposals. The position is NIH/NCI-funded and based in an academic cancer research setting, requiring a doctoral degree and experience in organic synthesis and cancer drug research.

Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist (1–2 years of experience following terminal degree) to join an NIH/NCI-funded drug discovery laboratory. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in the design and synthesis of small molecules, along with classical structure determination using modern spectroscopic methods (¹H, ¹³C, ¹⁹F NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). You will bring fresh energy and ideas to ongoing discovery efforts and actively contribute to the research program.
Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists, the Postdoctoral Scientist will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout training period. May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.
Analyzes and interprets data. May assist in preparation of grant proposals. Participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author. Not responsible for generating grant funds.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize small-molecule compounds.

• Perform structure elucidation using ¹H/¹³C/¹⁹F NMR and MS; maintain meticulous experimental records.

• Propose hypotheses, plan experiments, and interpret data to drive hit-to-lead optimization.

• Author independent reports, manuscripts, and presentations; contribute to grant/research proposals.

• Collaborate effectively with PI, staff scientists, students, and research assistants; help mentor junior team members.

• Proactively identify technical challenges and propose innovative solutions.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• May assist in the preparation of grant proposals, but is not responsible for generating grant funds.

• May participate in publications and presentations as author or co-author.

• Designs and performs experiments. Will keep appropriate experimental records and documentation and analyze the results with the Principal Investigator.

• May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.

• Analyzes interpret, summarizes, and compiles data.

• Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout the training period.

• Operates and maintains equipment and instruments.

• May observe MD-patient or MD-human research subject interactions as it pertains directly to research being performed.
Qualifications
Requirements:

• Doctorate (MD, PhD, VMD, or DDS) in area directly related to field of research specialization.
Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in small-molecule synthesis and/or natural products' synthesis.

• Experience in anticancer drug discovery research.

• Demonstrated ability in organic synthesis.

• Demonstrated ability to generate independent reports, publications, and ideas.

• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with laboratory members, including students and/or assistants.
To Apply

• This position is available immediately. Please email a single PDF (or a consolidated set of documents) including:

• Cover letter describing how you meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and outlining your research interests and career goals

• Current curriculum vitae (CV)

• 3 references with contact information (including email addresses)

• Send materials to:
James Turkson, Ph.D. —
Req  : 12290
Working Title :
Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab
Department :
Cancer Institute
Business Entity :
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Job Category :
Academic / Research
Job Specialty :
Postdoctoral Scholar
Overtime Status : EXEMPT
Primary Shift :
Day
Shift Duration : 8 hour
Base Pay : $30.00 - $45.00
Keywords:
postdoctoral scientist, drug discovery, small-molecule synthesis, organic synthesis, NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, anticancer research, laboratory research, scientific publication, biotechnology research