Principal Scientist, Imaging Biomarker Research

Scientist III

The Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, is seeking applicants for a Scientist III level position with particular interest in 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. The successful candidate will design and pursue research approaches aimed at identifying highly potent and selective ligands for pathological proteins, perform and supervise medicinal chemistry research, supervise the day-to-day activities of staff, interact with external research groups, interpret, summarize and present results, and monitor the program's budget.

She or he will conduct literature reviews and assist in writing publications as well as grant applications. We seek applicants with a track record of outstanding research accomplishments and an ability to work in a highly collegial and collaborative academic environment.

This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location. Terminal, 24 month appointment. This position has the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding.

Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration:

• Broad knowledge base in organic chemistry, including:
• Organic synthesis of heterocyclic compounds,
• Synthesis of small analogue libraries,
• Lead characterization and optimization experience
• Scale up of lead compounds to produce multi-gram quantities

Key job responsibilities include:

• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials and, disseminates information to appropriate entities
• Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
• Collects and analyzes highly complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures
• Identifies, writes, or assists in developing grant opportunities, grant applications, and proposals to secure research funding
• May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit and staff and resolve routine personnel issues
• Identifies research problems and develops highly complex research methodologies and procedures. Publishes and presents results to help advance research
• Serves as an institutional subject matter expert and liaison with key internal and external stakeholders providing expert level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
• Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures

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

Compensation:
The starting salary for the position is $90,000 annually; but is negotiable based 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.

Required qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years relevant postdoctoral experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of scientific project and laboratory management experience
• Minimum of 3 years of medicinal chemistry experience

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with relevant laboratory analytical techniques such as 1H/13C-NMR, HPLC, GC, TLC, MS, etc.
• Experience participating in multi-disciplinary drug discovery projects involving sample testing, managing internal and external resources, interpreting, summarizing and communicating results to stakeholders.

Education:

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or closely related discipline, is required.

How to apply:

For the best experience completing your application, we recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.

To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials. Important:
The application has only one attachment field. Upload all required documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area. Upload required documents:
• Cover letter
• Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience align with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected.

Contact information:
Rachael Wilson, rewilson3

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