Chemical Biologist

Guidehouse•Bethesda, MD

6d•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently searching for a Chemical Biologist to provide support services to satisfy the overall operational objectives of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). This is a full-time, on-site opportunity in Bethesda, MD.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of TWO (2) years of laboratory research experience OR Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of FOUR (4) years of laboratory research in lieu of Ph.D.
Demonstrated expertise in cyclic peptide generation, screening, synthesis, and optimization.
Strong background in synthetic chemistry, including small molecule and peptide synthesis.
Knowledge of chemical biology approaches for drug discovery or imaging applications.
Experience with or knowledge of fluorescent dyes, chelators for radioactive metals, MRI agents and nanoparticles.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD “public trust”; candidates must receive approved adjudication prior to onboarding with Guidehouse.
Candidates with an active public trust or suitability are preferred.

Nice To Haves

Ability to design and execute complex experiments independently.
Excellent communication skills.
Proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-based environment.

Responsibilities

Synthesize and optimize small cyclic peptides for diagnostic imaging and early-stage drug discovery applications.
Design and develop small molecules as chemical tools to support biological research, including target validation and imaging (MRI, optical, PET).
Develop and implement mRNA-based peptide expression systems for cyclic peptide production.
Perform peptide conjugation, including linking to fluorescent dyes, chelators, or imaging agents.
Prepare and characterize antibody fragments (e.g., nanobodies, Fab2) and conjugate them for imaging applications.
Conduct compound screening, synthesis, and optimization workflows.
Utilize modern analytical instrumentation to characterize compounds and ensure quality.
Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams in a service-oriented research environment.
Document and communicate experimental results effectively through reports and presentations.

Benefits

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
401(k) Retirement Plan
Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Care.com annual membership
Employee Assistance Program
Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus