Research Chemist

RTI International•Durham, NC

3d•$90,000 - $110,000

About The Position

RTI International is seeking a Research Chemist to join its Center for Therapeutics, Toxicology, and Devices (CTTD). The team provides expertise in organic synthesis, complex purification, analytical method development, chemical characterization, and dose formulation development. The Research Chemist will contribute to multidisciplinary research supporting the discovery and development of therapeutic compounds. The role involves designing and conducting organic chemistry experiments; applying purification and characterization techniques; establishing structure–activity relationships (SAR) to guide compound development; and collaborating with computational chemists and scientists in related disciplines to interpret findings and inform research. The successful candidate will bring strong laboratory skills and the ability to lead defined research activities, contribute to proposals, communicate scientific findings, and mentor less experienced staff.

Requirements

PhD in chemistry or a directly related discipline.
At least three years of directly related experience.
Hands-on experience with a broad range of organic reactions and purification strategies.
Experience applying analytical methods and chemical characterization techniques to organic chemistry research.
Ability to interpret experimental results and use SAR trends to inform research decisions.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform detailed, accurate work independently and collaboratively.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain scientific findings to varied audiences.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and statistical computing software.

Responsibilities

Design and conduct organic synthesis experiments using established methods and develop or adapt approaches when appropriate to address research challenges.
Perform chemical reactions, complex purifications, and compound characterization to support project objectives.
Develop and apply analytical methods to evaluate compound identity, purity, and other relevant chemical properties.
Contribute to dose formulation development and characterization as required by project needs.
Interpret chemical and related in vitro data to identify SAR trends and recommend next steps for compound design and synthesis.
Collaborate with computational chemists and other research scientists to integrate experimental findings and guide research decisions.
Lead assigned project activities, coordinate technical work, and manage competing priorities to meet project milestones.
Design research activities that build on the team’s collective expertise and advance project objectives.
Prepare technical reports, proposal sections, and presentations communicating research methods, findings, and recommendations.
Present research findings to clients, collaborators, and audiences at professional meetings.
Contribute to project development and proposal activities by communicating RTI’s technical capabilities to internal and external stakeholders.
Review colleagues’ scientific work and provide constructive technical feedback.
Mentor junior staff through technical guidance, performance feedback, and support for professional development.
Maintain accurate, complete research records and follow applicable laboratory safety and quality requirements.
Perform scheduled instrument maintenance independently and participate in internal and external audits as needed.