Research Scientist (MS/PhD) – Medicinal Chemistry

Drug Discovery Core | Cancer Center

The Drug Discovery Core within the Cancer Center is seeking a highly motivated and skilled synthetic chemist (MS or PhD level) to join our multidisciplinary translational research team in the Department of Chemistry at UVA. This position will focus exclusively on medicinal chemistry and small-molecule synthesis in support of oncology-focused drug discovery programs.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to the design and advancement of novel therapeutic candidates within a collaborative academic research environment.

Position Summary

The Research Scientist will play a central role in medicinal chemistry efforts across multiple drug discovery projects. The successful candidate will design, synthesize, purify, and characterize small molecules to support hit-to-lead and lead optimization campaigns.

This role is ideal for a scientist who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced research setting and enjoys solving complex synthetic challenges in the context of translational drug discovery.

Key Responsibilities

Medicinal Chemistry

• Design and execute multi-step organic syntheses of small molecules.
• Conduct reaction optimization, route scouting, and scale-up efforts.
• Purify compounds using flash chromatography, preparative HPLC, and crystallization techniques.
• Perform compound characterization using NMR, LC-MS, HRMS, IR, and related analytical methods.
• Maintain detailed electronic laboratory records and ensure data integrity.
• Contribute to structure–activity relationship (SAR) discussions and compound design strategy.
• Collaborate closely with biology and pharmacology teams to incorporate assay feedback into design cycles.
• Manage compound inventory and ensure proper storage and documentation.

Required Qualifications

• MS (with significant research experience) or PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in multi-step small-molecule synthesis.
• Strong purification and compound characterization skills.
• Ability to independently design experiments and troubleshoot synthetic challenges.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in medicinal chemistry or small-molecule drug discovery.
• Familiarity with SAR-driven optimization strategies.
• Experience working in an academic drug discovery core or industry setting.
• Exposure to translational oncology research.

Work Environment

The Drug Discovery Core partners with faculty investigators and interdisciplinary teams to accelerate therapeutic discovery efforts. The selected candidate will contribute to multiple active projects within a dynamic and collaborative research environment, with access to modern instrumentation and core facilities.

Why Join Us?

• Direct impact on oncology drug discovery programs
• Collaborative, translational research environment
• Exposure to diverse therapeutic targets and project portfolios
• Opportunity for professional growth within an academic cancer center

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0081382. Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on April 15, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions about the position, please contact Jetze Tepe, Professor of Chemistry and Director of Drug Discovery, at cew9xb@virginia.edu .

For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .

For more information on the benefits available to research scientists at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.