Staff Scientist

University of Chicago•Hyde Park, IL

12h•Onsite

About The Position

The Staff Scientist will conduct advanced research in synthetic organic chemistry under the direction of Dr. Viresh Rawal. The role involves designing and executing complex multistep syntheses, developing new synthetic methodologies, particularly in transition metal catalysis and carbonyl chemistry, and contributing to natural product total synthesis projects such as hapalindole family and veratrum alkaloids. The position supports the research group's efforts in innovative organic transformations and publication of high-impact results.

Requirements

PhD in related field.
Knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

PhD in Organic Chemistry.
Postdoctoral experience.
Development of transition metal catalyzed reactions and multistep synthesis.
Proficient in Bruker NMR instruments (1H, 13C, 2D, etc.).
Experience using and maintaining Agilent HPLC instruments, including separations of chiral compounds.
Ability to maintain research instruments such as HPLC and other common equipment in an organic chemistry laboratory.
Knowledge of synthetic methodology, especially organotransition metal chemistry, carbonyl chemistry, and reactive intermediates.
Deep understanding of organic synthesis methodology, especially Organotransition metal chemistry and organobismuth chemistry.
Ability to perform reactions under inert conditions, using Schlenk techniques, and scales down to 0.05 mM.
Knowledge of reaction mechanisms, and natural product total synthesis.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills in complex synthetic challenges.
Excellent oral and written communication skills for publications and presentations.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research group.
Experience with photochemical synthesis and catalyst development.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, and optimize multistep organic syntheses for natural product targets, especially by taking advantage of new advances in organobismuth chemistry.
Troubleshooting synthetic challenges.
Develop and refine organobismuth reagents for solving important problems in organic synthesis.
Perform reactions under inert atmosphere using Schlenk techniques and microwave-assisted synthesis.
Maintain and operate laboratory instruments including Agilent HPLC for chiral separations.
Analyze reaction products using spectroscopic methods, including through the use of a Bruker NMR (1H, 13C, 2D) and GCMS and LCMS techniques.
Collaborate with research group members, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to grant writing and progress reports.
Prepare manuscripts for high-impact journals and present research findings internally and externally.
Under general supervision of principal investigator, supervise and assist with complex technical duties in the organic chemistry laboratory.
Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data.
Participates in the promotion of a research project.
May present work at scientific meetings.
Performs other related work as needed.