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MUSC
UNIV - Staff Scientist I - Department of Biochemistry
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What they do
A Biochemist studies the chemical composition of cells and organisms and conducts research using advanced technologies. Studies the chemical interactions involved in biologic processes such as metabolism, reproduction, and growth, or the effect of drugs or hormones on cells, or conducts research to isolate, analyze or synthesize proteins, enzymes and other molecules.
$73,832 / year median in South Carolina
+29% projected growth
Job Description
R-0000064907
Charleston, South Carolina Unclassified Nonfaculty-University Other Full Time University (UNIV) Job Description Summary The laboratory of Dr. Dan Sprague has an opening for a motivated and productive synthetic and natural products chemist to fill the role of Staff Scientist I starting after July 1, 2026. This person will support efforts in chemistry and chemical biology throughout the laboratory. Entity Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC- Univ) Worker Type Employee Worker Sub-Type Research Grant Cost Center
CC000954 COM BIOCHEM
Operations CC Pay Rate Type Salary Pay Grade University-00 Pay Range 0.00- 0.00
- 0.
Work Shift Job Description Job Purpose:
The Staff Scientist will be responsible for leading projects related to the synthesis of chemical tools, probes, and small molecule preclinical candidates. The Staff Scientist will manage aspects of daily chemistry laboratory function and regulatory compliance in conjunction with the PI, and alongside our lab manager. The Staff Scientist will design synthetic routes, carry-out the synthesis of these molecules, and fully characterize new molecules in a timely fashion. The Staff Scientist will be responsible, in conjunction with the PI, for advising and fostering collaborations with MUSC faculty regarding the development of small molecules. The candidate will keep meticulously organized notes and data. The candidate will also (in conjunction with the PI) assist in training new lab members in safety and chemistry techniques as the need arises. There will be ample opportunity for co-authorship on manuscripts and patents, and Dr. Sprague is committed to helping develop the capabilities of the Staff Scientist in molecular pharmacology and cell biology as needs arise or if interested.Required:
The candidate is required to have a minimum of a Ph.D. in Chemistry or related subjects with extensive experience and demonstrated productivity in multi-step syntheses as evidenced by multiple high-quality publications.Preferred:
Preferred experience working with complex secondary metabolites, including total synthesis of alkaloids, is a plus. Knowledge of advanced NMR techniques (e.g., 2D-NMR, qNMR, etc.) is beneficial.Guidelines and Supervision:
Must be able to work efficiently and independently under the direction of the PI. Must be able to drive projects forward in a timely manner to meet collaborative demands across the institution.Job Duties:
25%- Executes synthetic routes to provide small molecules to support efforts within the Sprague Lab and across the institution 20%
- Fully characterizes small molecules 15%
- Performs chemical biology experiments to determine target engagement of new small molecules 10%
- Helps to train junior members of the lab in proper lab safety and techniques in chemistry 10%
- Prepares exceptional, well-organized daily laboratory records of experimental procedures and results 10%
- Participates in drafting manuscripts, grants, and patents as needed 5%
- Presents research routinely to the lab at lab meetings, participates in lab meeting discussions, and leads collaborative efforts across the institution 5%
- Upon request, performs other tasks requested to maintain a smooth operation of the laboratory.
Additional Job Description Physical Requirements:
(Note:
The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous- 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent
- 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent
- 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position.