Imaging Biomarker Research Scientist - Chemistry

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Job Category:

Academic Staff

Terminal (Fixed Term)

Scientist II

The Department of Medicine offers a unique opportunity for a Scientist I or II to support research aimed at developing novel molecular imaging tracers for neuroscience applications. These imaging radiotracers will facilitate the diagnosis of brain diseases based on their molecular pathology and hence the development of therapeutics. This successful candidate will conduct lead discovery and optimization based on medicinal chemistry techniques to identify potent ligands for pathological proteins.

Leads will be radio labeled for further characterization. We seek applicants with a track record of outstanding research accomplishments in organic and medicinal chemistry, and an ability to work in a highly collegial and collaborative academic environment.

• May require some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non‑campus work location.
• Terminal, 24 month appointment
• Possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding.
• Applicants will be considered for titles:
  Scientist I;
  Scientist II. Title determined by experience and qualifications of finalist.

• Serves as unit subject matter expert and liaison to internal and external stakeholders providing advanced level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area.
• Identifies research problems and develops complex research methodologies and procedures.
• May supervise the day‑to‑day activities of a research unit as needed.
• Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.
• Attends and assists with facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information.
• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities.
• Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures.
• Collects and analyzes complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision.

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, ADRC WRAP Biospecimen Lab

Fueled by innovation yet grounded in kindness, the Department of Medicine empowers leaders to transform medicine and improve lives everywhere. We are committed to professional fulfillment and health equity. We strive to ensure that everyone in our department understands the importance of social impact and belonging—and is empowered to champion it in all they do. Join us and be a part of supporting our nationally recognized faculty, innovative medical education programs and exceptional clinical care as we work towards our vision of healthy people and healthy communities!

The expected salary range for this position is $70,000 up to $100,000 for highly experienced candidates and actual pay within this range will depend on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage and the SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026.

• Minimum of 2 years postdoctoral experience in organic or medicinal chemistry.

• Preference will be given to applicants with a broad knowledge base in organic chemistry, including:
  • Organic synthesis of heterocyclic compounds
  • Synthesis of small analogue libraries
  • Lead optimization based on common medicinal chemistry practices
  • Scale up of lead compounds to produce multi‑gram quantities
  • Extensive experience with relevant laboratory analytical techniques such as 1H/13C‑NMR, HPLC, GC, TLC, MS, etc.