Research Professional III

• 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday
• Willing to work occasional evenings and weekends as necessary

Master's degree in a related field of science and 5 years of professional experience

• Ph.D. in Chemistry/organic chemistry is preferred
• 2 years or more of post-doctoral experience is preferred

• Knowledge of organic synthesis principles, including multistep reaction design, purification, and analytical characterization of small molecules.
• Knowledge of pharmacokinetics, laboratory operations, safety practices, and research methodologies in medicinal and organic chemistry.
• Skill in designing, executing, and troubleshooting multistep organic syntheses with reproducible outcomes.
• Skill in chromatographic purification and analysis of compounds using standard analytical techniques.
• Skill in scientific writing and literature research using scholarly databases.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and apply critical thinking to experimental design and problemsolving.
• Ability to maintain laboratory operations, follow safety and regulatory requirements, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

• Transport equipment along footpaths in the laboratory area and connected rooms.
• Lift equipment up to ~25lbs.
• Sitting/standing for long periods of time.

• Uphold and promote high ethical standards, scientific integrity, and productivity in support of the antiviral and anticancer drug discovery programs within the College of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia.
• Design, synthesize, and optimize small molecules, nucleoside analogs, and nucleotide analogs, including the execution of complex, multistep synthetic pathways to evaluate biological activity as potential drug candidates.
• Provide scientific leadership in medicinal chemistry and antiviral/anticancer drug discovery through independent project execution and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, including internal and external research partners.
• Conduct structural characterization and analysis of organic compounds using NMR, mass spectrometry, LCMS, UV, and IR spectroscopy.
• Perform purification of organic compounds using HPLC, flash chromatography, and normalphase silica gel chromatography.
• Apply advanced organic chemistry expertise to troubleshoot and resolve synthetic challenges across multiple projects; conduct comprehensive literature searches (e.g., SciFinder) and maintain awareness of emerging methods and discoveries relevant to ongoing research.
• Ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance, including chemical inventory management, hazardous waste handling, and proper use of safety systems (e.g., Chematrix/ChemWatch), in alignment with UGA policies and EPA regulations.
• Maintain laboratory operations, including routine maintenance of equipment, development and revision of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and coordination of instrument functionality.
• Train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and research best practices.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peerreviewed journals in medicinal chemistry, organic chemistry, and drug discovery.
• Present research findings and progress updates through regular lab meetings, written reports, and discussions with the Principal Investigator; participate in meetings with pharmaceutical industry collaborators as applicable.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory notebooks and supporting documentation in accordance with research and compliance standards.

• Develop, generate, and maintain experimental models and protocols, including the design and molecular modeling of small molecules in support of the antiviral drug discovery program.

• Train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in organic synthesis techniques, including reaction setup, execution, purification, and structural analysis of compounds.
• Instruct trainees in experimental methods and laboratory procedures, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and best research practices.
• Guide students in the analysis and interpretation of antiviral and anticancer assay data, supporting their development of technical and analytical skills.

• Maintain laboratory safety standards, including chemical management, required records, and standard operating protocols.
• Manage laboratory purchasing activities, including ordering supplies, tracking deliveries, and maintaining accurate chemical and equipment inventories.
• Monitor laboratory activities to ensure compliance with safety regulations, institutional policies, and best laboratory practices.

• Participate in research project planning and collaborate with faculty investigators and affiliated laboratories to develop and advance new research initiatives.