Research Associate - Medicinal Chemistry

6d6 days ago

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, US · Full-time · $55,000 – $75,000

About this role

The Erwin Lab at Baylor College of Medicine seeks a Research Associate to support the design, synthesis and characterization of novel ligands for treating repeat expansion disease research. This position assists with the synthesis of pyrrole-imidazole polyamides and conjugates under the general direction of the PI. The ideal candidate will have experience in multi-step organic synthesis and a passion for translating chemical innovations into therapeutic leads.

Daily tasks include conducting multi-step syntheses via manual solid-phase methods using Fmoc- and Boc-protected amino acids. Responsibilities encompass conjugating polyamides to small molecules with various linker designs and purifying compounds by reverse-phase HPLC. Basic characterization uses NMR and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry.

The role involves working collaboratively in a research lab, presenting findings at lab meetings and maintaining detailed notebooks. Assistance in optimizing linker chemistries and conjugation strategies occurs under PI guidance. Participation in troubleshooting synthetic routes escalates complex issues to senior members.

Growth opportunities include conducting literature searches to support projects and preparing fluorescently labeled analogs for uptake studies. Maintaining chemical inventory and ensuring lab safety compliance builds operational skills. The position offers hands-on experience advancing therapeutic leads in medicinal chemistry.

Requirements

Master's degree in Basic Science or a related field; experience in lieu of degree will not be accepted
Three years of relevant experience typically as a Research Assistant, Research Technician or Postdoctoral Fellow/Associate
Experience with organic synthesis, peptide or oligomer assembly, or heterocyclic chemistry
Familiarity with HPLC purification, NMR sample preparation, and mass spectrometry
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow complex protocols
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a research laboratory

Responsibilities

Conducts research experiments involving the synthesis of small molecule ligands that can be conjugated with pyrrole-imidazole polyamides for therapeutic applications
Performs multi-step syntheses of pyrrole-imidazole polyamides via manual solid-phase synthesis using Fmoc- and Boc-protected amino acids
Conjugates polyamides to small molecules using standard coupling chemistry with various linker designs
Purifies compounds by reverse-phase HPLC and conducts basic characterization using NMR and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry
Maintains detailed laboratory notebooks and presents findings at lab meetings
Conducts literature searches to support ongoing projects and compiles information in formats requested by the PI
Assists in optimizing linker chemistries and conjugation strategies under PI guidance
Prepares fluorescently labeled analogs following established protocols for uptake studies