The Marine Natural Product Chemist is responsible for organic chemistry research that focuses on the discovery of biologically active secondary metabolites from marine sources.
Under minimal supervision, perform experimental work that requires knowledge and skill in metabolomics, analytical chemistry, and organic chemistry. Research projects in collaboration with academic supervisor, making innovative contributions pertaining to experimental procedures, indicating a significant independent contribution beyond journey level. Research activities include compound isolation and structure elucidation using various spectroscopic instruments and performing antibacterial bioassays. Assist with field collections and the development of new techniques for natural product discovery that require scuba diving to deploy. Co-author papers. Collaborate and exchange ideas for research with academic supervisor, other lab members, and other researchers. Conduct literature searches. Train and teach Visiting Scholars, volunteers, and students in the field of organic chemistry. Perform routine laboratory functions and provide work-direction. Present results at lab meetings.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree or greater in organic chemistry or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Scientific diver certification and ability to maintain certification. Demonstrated experience in scuba diving.
- Strong knowledge of marine organisms and habitats.
- Theoretical knowledge in natural product isolation and structure elucidation.
- Experience using various software tools including antiSMASH for genome analysis, MiBIG, GNPS, and Marinlit.
- Demonstrated experience with acquiring and interpreting one and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data.
- Proven experience with acquiring and interpreting mass spec data and the maintenance of MS instrumentation.
- Experience using the online tool such as Global Natural Product Social Molecular Networking (GNPS) for mass spectrometry (MS) data visualization and analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement new methods to meet research needs and improve process efficiencies.
- Demonstrated fundamental skills in bacterial cultivation.
- Experience performing antibiotic bioassays.
- Demonstrated experience in overall planning of research projects related to organic chemistry.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with little supervision/guidance. Demonstrated strong organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple projects at once.
- Demonstrated ability to understand and evaluate scientific literature. This includes all aspects of the research project and interpreting results for scientific publications. Demonstrated skill in writing and editing with experience in co-authoring papers related to organic chemistry.
- Demonstrated ability to direct, train and guide others.
- Knowledge of lab safety requirements and procedures, hazardous materials disposal, and skill to train others in these procedures/requirements. Knowledge/understanding and experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication, and Injury and Illness Prevention Program.
- Detailed knowledge of chemistry needed to oversee safe and efficient use of laboratory equipment and safety procedures.
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility with students, staff, faculty, and visitors of various cultures and backgrounds.
- Skill and knowledge to conduct research and provide innovative contributions pertaining to experimental procedures.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
- Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
Annual Full Pay Range: $64,506 - $103,727 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
