UNIV - Staff Scientist I - Department of Biochemistry
About The Position
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. 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.
Requirements
- 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.
- Ability to work efficiently and independently under the direction of the PI.
- Ability to drive projects forward in a timely manner to meet collaborative demands across the institution.
- Ability to perform job functions in an upright position.
- Ability to perform job functions in a seated position.
- Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile.
- Ability to work indoors.
- Ability to perform chemical biology experiments to determine target engagement of new small molecules.
- Ability to fully use both hands/arms.
- Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders.
- Ability to fully use both legs.
- Ability to reach in all directions.
- Possess good finger dexterity.
- Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions.
- Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function.
- Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected.
- Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand.
- Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance.
- Ability to match or discriminate between colors.
- Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception.
- Good peripheral vision capabilities.
- Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction.
- Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements.
- Ability to be qualified physically (by medical personnel) for respirator use, initially and annually.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license.
- Computer literacy.
- Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.
Nice To Haves
- 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.
Responsibilities
- Executes synthetic routes to provide small molecules to support efforts within the Sprague Lab and across the institution
- Fully characterizes small molecules
- Performs chemical biology experiments to determine target engagement of new small molecules
- Helps to train junior members of the lab in proper lab safety and techniques in chemistry
- Prepares exceptional, well-organized daily laboratory records of experimental procedures and results
- Participates in drafting manuscripts, grants, and patents as needed
- Presents research routinely to the lab at lab meetings, participates in lab meeting discussions, and leads collaborative efforts across the institution
- Upon request, performs other tasks requested to maintain a smooth operation of the laboratory.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
