Part time Research Assistant, UMKC School of Science & Engineering, Energy, Matter & Systems
About The Position
UMKC School of Science and Engineering is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented part time research assistant at 50% FTE (20 hours per week) to join our team in the field of organic synthesis. The successful candidate will support the design, synthesis, purification, and characterization of organic compounds for use in [drug discovery / total synthetic / analytical / pharmaceutical / medicinal]. Working under the supervision of senior researchers, the research assistant will contribute to ongoing research projects by conducting laboratory experiments, maintaining accurate records, and assisting in data analysis. This position offers a hands-on opportunity to develop skills in synthetic organic chemistry and gain experience in a dynamic research environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor's and master's degree in chemistry
- Hands-on experience with common organic synthesis techniques
- Familiarity with purification and characterization methods (e.g., TLC, column chromatography, NMR, MS).
- Prior research experience in an academic or industrial lab.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
- Proficiency in chemical drawing and data analysis software (e.g., ChemDraw, MNova, Bruker).
- Knowledge of structure-activity relationships (SAR) and reaction mechanism principles.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Responsibilities
- Perform multi-step organic synthesis, purification (e.g., column chromatography, recrystallization), and characterization of target compounds.
- Analyze compounds using spectroscopic and analytical techniques such as NMR, IR, MS, HPLC, and GC.
- Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, observations, and results in lab notebooks and electronic databases.
- Assist in the design and optimization of synthetic pathways.
- Manage laboratory equipment and ensure proper handling and disposal of chemicals.
- Conduct literature reviews to support ongoing research.
- Collaborate with team members in preparing research reports, presentations, and publications.
- Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment.
- Any other duties as assigned
Benefits
- This position is not eligible for University benefits.
- Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b).
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Industry
Educational Services
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
