Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Description

• We are seeking a highly-motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry to join a growing research program in collaboration with KAUST (KSA) focused on targeted drug delivery systems for potent epigenetic inhibitors, with applications in human cancers and neurological diseases.
• The position is centered on the design, synthesis, and optimization of small molecules within a multidisciplinary and multi-PI drug discovery environment encompassing synthesis, computer-aided drug design, biophysical assay development, and cellular studies.
• The successful candidate will play a central role in establishing the synthetic and medicinal chemistry capabilities of a newly formed research group, and help shape the direction, culture, and research output of the laboratory.
• The candidate is expected to drive the synthetic arm of the group and contribute to complex synthetic challenges with independence, productivity, and creativity.
• Expertise in medicinal chemistry, and small molecule drug discovery is a major asset.
• Interest in in vitro analyses and running cellular studies is a bonus.
• Major responsibilities include:
• Design and execution of multi-step organic synthesis for small-molecule compounds
• Development and optimization of synthetic routes for efficient compound generation
• Application of modern synthetic methodologies, including amide coupling, Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions, and organometallic chemistry (e.g., Grignard, lithium–halogen exchange), as well as more complex synthetic transformations.
• Use of protection and deprotection strategies in complex molecule synthesis
• Purification of compounds using manual and automated chromatography systems (e.g., flash chromatography)
• Structural characterization using HPLC, NMR, and MS.
• Maintenance of detailed experimental records and reproducible workflows
• Contribution to compound design and iterative optimization cycles
• Collaboration with interdisciplinary team members on downstream applications
• Preparation of reports, presentations, manuscripts, and scientific publications
• Contribution to grant writing, project proposals, and review articles The ideal candidate should hold a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field and possess extensive hands-on experience in multi-step organic synthesis. The candidate should demonstrate strong proficiency in reaction design, route optimization, purification, and structural characterization (LC-MS, HPLC, NMR). A high level of independence, creativity, and problem-solving ability in synthetic chemistry is essential. Experience or interest in medicinal chemistry, small-molecule drug discovery, or biologically relevant targets is considered a strong advantage, but not required. The appointment is for 24 months. The package includes a competitive monthly salary and medical insurance in accordance with institutional regulations.

Minimum Qualification

Preferred Qualification

Special Instructions To Applicant

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