The WVU Cancer Institute at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for an Assistant Research Chemist.

About the Opportunity

As an Assistant Research Chemist, you will assist in the design and production of novel small molecules via synthetic methods. You will be expected to possess multiple competencies including synthetic organic chemistry and analytical chemistry on a milligram to gram scale. You will work closely with a diverse cross-disciplinary team of scientists including cancer biologists, molecular biologists and computational chemists. We are specifically seeking a creative, energetic and highly self-motivated individual who enjoys the challenges associated with cutting edge small molecule research.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• PTO
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks
• And More!!

What you'll do:

• Execute efficient synthesis of novel compounds and validation of structures.
• Assist in the design of novel compounds to advance the chemical series to a lead candidate selection.
• Support the rational compound design of candidate compounds from ideation to small scale synthesis.

• Master's degree in synthetic organic chemistry, pharmacy, medicinal chemistry, natural product chemistry, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience.
• 0-2 years of relevant experience.
• Desire to work in an academic group.
• Familiarization with modern Medicinal Chemistry principals is preferred.
• Proficiency in multi-step organic synthesis, chromatographic purification, and compound characterization using modern analytical techniques (NMR, LCMS and HPLC).
• Ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary environment and learn new technologies quickly.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to work in multidisciplinary team environments.
• Background in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry, purification, and structure determination is preferred.
• Good to advanced understanding of pharmacotherapy and pharmacology is preferred.
• Familiarity with natural product isolation, purification and structure determination is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD in synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, natural product chemistry, or related.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

Creating an inclusive, engaged, and dynamic environment is core to WVURC’s mission. We welcome candidates who can contribute a range of ideas, approaches and experiences.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.