Chemistry Scientist: Molecular Imaging Tracer Development

University of Wisconsin Madison•Madison, WI

8d•Onsite

About The Position

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 radiolabeled 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. 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. Applicants for this position will be considered for the following titles [Scientist I; Scientist II]. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or closely related discipline, is required.
Cover letter required
Resume required
Eligibility to work in the United States on or before the effective date of appointment.
Eligibility to work until the end date of the appointment (two years from hire date).

Nice To Haves

Minimum of 2 years postdoctoral experience in organic or medicinal chemistry.
Demonstrated track record in small-molecule protein ligand development, including assay-guided SAR and lead advancement.
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, and Extensive experience with relevant laboratory analytical techniques such as 1H/13C-NMR, HPLC, GC, TLC, MS, etc.

Responsibilities

Independently designs, synthesizes, purifies, and characterizes focused compound libraries to support PET tracer discovery and medicinal chemistry optimization.
Serves as a 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
Collaborates closely with biological assay, imaging, radiochemistry, and project team colleagues to interpret data, prioritize compounds, and support effective lead optimization.
Attends and assists with the 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
Performs compound scale-up and prepares high-quality research materials to enable in vitro assays, radiolabeling studies, pharmacokinetic evaluation, and other downstream experiments.
Advances hit and lead compounds through iterative structure-activity relationship studies, using chemical, physicochemical, and biological assay data to guide compound design.
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