This Staff Scientist will be directly under the supervision of the co-Director of the Center for Drug Design (CDD), with the overall goal of advancing key CDD projects in drug discovery, by providing center-wide computational medicinal chemistry support. The main duties will be to conduct molecular docking to aid in structure-based drug design, carry out virtual screenings using structure- or pharmacophore-based approaches, and perform protein homology modeling. The success of this position will require expertise in quantum chemistry, molecular mechanics methods, and molecular dynamic simulation, skills in molecular modeling and protein homology modeling, and the ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment. The successful candidate is expected to work largely independently with minimal supervision.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
85% Cheminformatics and molecular modeling

• Conduct molecular docking to aid in structure-based drug design.
• Carry out virtual screenings using structure- or pharmacophore-based approaches.
• Perform protein homology modeling
• Curate and maintain a searchable in-house compound database.
• Create compound structure data files suitable for high throughput docking.

15% Other duties
Equipment management
Supervision:
This position will report to Dr. Zhengqiang (ZQ) Wang
Working Conditions:
The position is 100% on site.

Salary: $65,000-$75,000

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in computational chemistry / biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in quantum chemistry, molecular mechanics methods, and molecular dynamic simulation.
• Skills in molecular modeling, including user experience with one or more of the standard modeling program suites (Schrodinger, MOE, etc)
• Proven record in productive scientific research.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in structure and ligand-based small molecule drug discovery
• Proficiency with Linux at the command line level
• Demonstrated knowledge on protein-ligand molecular interactions.
• Experience in protein homology modeling is a plus.
• Proven ability to write project reports and manuscripts.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good at computer troubleshooting.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).