Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist (12 years of experience following terminal degree) to join an NIH/NCI-funded drug discovery laboratory. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in the design and synthesis of small molecules along with classical structure determination using modern spectroscopic methods (¹H ¹³C ¹⁹F NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). You will bring fresh energy and ideas to ongoing discovery efforts and actively contribute to the research program.

Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists the Postdoctoral Scientist will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout training period. May develop adapt and implement new research techniques and protocols.

Analyzes and interprets data. May assist in preparation of grant proposals. Participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author. Not responsible for generating grant funds.

Key Responsibilities

• Design synthesize purify and characterize small-molecule compounds.
• Perform structure elucidation using ¹H/¹³C/¹⁹F NMR and MS; maintain meticulous experimental records.
• Propose hypotheses plan experiments and interpret data to drive hit-to-lead optimization.
• Author independent reports manuscripts and presentations; contribute to grant/research proposals.
• Collaborate effectively with PI staff scientists students and research assistants; help mentor junior team members.
• Proactively identify technical challenges and propose innovative solutions.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• May assist in the preparation of grant proposals but is not responsible for generating grant funds.
• May participate in publications and presentations as author or co-author.
• Designs and performs experiments. Will keep appropriate experimental records and documentation and analyze the results with the Principal Investigator.
• May develop adapt and implement new research techniques and protocols.
• Analyzes interpret summarizes and compiles data.
• Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout the training period.
• Operates and maintains equipment and instruments.
• May observe MD-patient or MD-human research subject interactions as it pertains directly to research being performed.

Requirements:

• Doctorate (MD PhD VMD or DDS) in area directly related to field of research specialization.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in small-molecule synthesis and/or natural products synthesis.
• Experience in anticancer drug discovery research.
• Demonstrated ability in organic synthesis.
• Demonstrated ability to generate independent reports publications and ideas.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with laboratory members including students and/or assistants.

To Apply

• This position is available immediately. Please email a single PDF (or a consolidated set of documents) including:
• Cover letter describing how you meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and outlining your research interests and career goals
• Current curriculum vitae (CV)
• 3 references with contact information (including email addresses)
• Send materials to: James Turkson Ph.D.