Research Fellow (Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences)

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Fellow-%28Pharmacy-and-Pharmaceutical-Sciences%29/32933-en_GB/

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

The successful candidate will work in the laboratory of Dr. Alexander Vinogradov (NUS Presidential Young Professor; lab website: https://vinogradov.science) on developing late-stage peptide modification strategies and utilizing them for drug discovery applications. Broadly, the project is dedicated to developing an mRNA display-compatible peptide cyclization and modification strategies. These strategies will be utilized for mRNA display-based discovery of cyclic peptides targeting proteins with high therapeutic potential. 

The main candidate will be responsible for:
• Design and conduct experiments in bio-organic chemistry, chemical biology, and biochemistry.
• Analyze experimental data, including using deep learning techniques (optional).
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at international conferences.
• Present oral research updates in group meetings and prepare periodic written updates.
• Contribute to maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

Qualifications:
• PhD degree in one of the following areas: organic chemistry, peptide chemistry, combinatorial chemistry, chemical biology, bioorganic chemistry, or biological chemistry. 

Skills:
• Expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including air-free techniques, syntheses in water, late-stage modification of complex compounds, peptide chemistry, including solid-phase peptide synthesis, analytical characterization, and peptide modification.
• Strong knowledge of fundamental organic and peptide chemistry.
• Understanding of combinatorial chemistry concepts and expertise in mRNA display or other genetically encoded combinatorial methods (yeast display, phage display, DELs) are not required but will be considered an asset.
• Expertise in analytical and biophysical techniques of peptides and small molecules (LC/MS, HPLC, UV-Vis spectroscopy, NMR).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Experience:  
• Candidates with at least 3-5 years’ experience in primary research. 
• PhD graduates without experience are welcome to apply.