Staff Scientist

Department

PSD Chemistry: Administrative Staff

About the Department

One of the first departments founded at the University of Chicago was the Department of Chemistry. Since then, The University of Chicago has been the recipient of more than 73 Nobel Prize recipients, 15 of which came from the Department of Chemistry. Our current faculty have considerable strength in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, as well as in interdisciplinary research that delves into biology, physics, and materials science.

Job Summary

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.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:        

• PhD in Organic Chemistry.

Experience:

• Postdoctoral experience.
• Development of transition metal catalyzed reactions and multistep synthesis.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• 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.

Preferred Competencies

• 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.

Working Conditions

• The work will be performed in an organic synthesis laboratory. For high productivity, it is essential that the researcher can be on their feet in front of a laboratory fume hood for 5-7 hours per day. The research requires full concentration throughout the day and great attention to laboratory safety. Handling of reactive chemicals, inert atmosphere techniques, and adherence to safety protocols are required.

Application Documents

• Resume (required, including a list of publications)
• A detailed summary of research experience (2-4 pages, required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)
• References (preferred)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$74,950.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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