Research Scholar in Medicinal Chemistry

Concordia is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and in the world. Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and talented individual to join our research team as a Research Scholar in Medicinal Chemistry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in drug discovery and development within a dynamic and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will work closely with our interdisciplinary team of collaborators to advance projects aimed at the development of novel therapeutic agents targeting the central nervous system. The goal of this collaborative, NIMH-funded project is to develop the first small molecule probe compounds that selectively target novel proteins involved in endocannabinoid transport and degradation. This is a full-time, fixed-term position with an initial appointment of 1 year, renewable based on performance and funding availability. The position will be based at Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, WI, located in close proximity to a vibrant scientific community in Milwaukee. Compensation and benefits are grant funded. Job Duties and Responsibilities Design, synthesize, and characterize small molecule compounds that interact with novel protein targets. Participate in hit-to-lead discovery and development studies to optimize compound potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties. Utilize modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques, including multi-step synthesis, purification, and characterization. Apply computational methods and molecular modeling tools to guide compound design and optimization. Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to interpret the results of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, design novel lead compounds, and brainstorm new ways to make those leads. Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, data, and observations. Work with environmental health and safety officers to maintain an orderly and safe research space. Routine upkeep of research equipment, including a 500 MHz NMR. Present research findings at local, national, and international meetings, conferences, and scientific symposia. Other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team. Effective communication skills with the ability to present scientific concepts and data clearly and concisely. Demonstrated track record of productivity through publications, presentations, or patents is advantageous. Prior experience in drug discovery research, particularly in academia or the pharmaceutical industry, is a plus. Education and Experience Ph.D. in Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related field is required. Documented experience in new target identification and the generation of centrally-acting small molecules is desirable. Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry principles. Hands-on experience in small molecule synthesis, purification, and characterization techniques (e.g., NMR, HPLC, MS). Compensation and Benefits This is a full-time, exempt grant funded position. The starting wage is dependent upon individual qualifications and experience. Concordia University benefit options include, but are not limited to the following: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Personal Spending Account, Flexible Spending Account, and/or Health Savings Account Disability and Survivor Plan Retirement Pension Plan Retirement 403(b) Savings Plan Basic Life and Supplemental Life Insurance Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage Critical Illness and Accident Insurance Tuition waiver benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents) Paid time-off including vacation, sick, and Holiday Volunteer paid time-off Compensation and Benefit Details Application Instructions To receive full consideration, all applicants are asked to complete and submit an online employment application through the Concordia University Employment page. To begin, please click the Apply Now section on the job page and then click the Apply For This Position button to begin the application process. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter that includes a statement of relevant research experience and career goals, curriculum vitae (CV), copies of up to 3 authored manuscripts (in press or in preparation) that demonstrate skills in synthetic chemistry, and contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Physical Demands/Equipment (Click to View) Equal Opportunity Employer It is the policy of CU to provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. The University will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, gender, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. However, CU is an institution of the LCMS and, to the extent allowed by law, CU reserves the right to give preference in employment based on religion. In addition, preference in holding certain employment positions is given to ordained or rostered ministers of the LCMS. Based on a religious tenet, CU recognizes only male, LCMS ordained Ministers of the Gospel, but recognizes both male and female LCMS Rostered Ministers of the Gospel. The Human Resources Department has been appointed to manage the equal employment opportunity program, including all equal employment opportunity activities, as required by federal, state and local agencies. If any employee or applicant for employment believes this policy has been violated, he/she must contact the Director of Human Resources. Concordia University is a HLC accredited, co-educational, liberal arts school offering more than 72 undergraduate majors, over 35 master's degree programs, and 5 doctoral programs. There are also a variety of accelerated evening and e-learning programs.