Position Description

The Njomen Lab at Duke University seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate with strong expertise in medicinal chemistry or synthetic organic chemistry. This role sits at the chemistry–biology interface and will contribute directly to the discovery of chemical probes and therapeutic leads toward the targeting of historically inaccessible protein targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis, and characterization of sp³-rich covalent small molecules
• Lead structure–activity relationship (SAR) campaigns and scaffold development
• Collaborate closely with biologists to translate compounds into cell-based and proteomic assays
• Mentor graduate students in chemical synthesis and characterization
• Contribute to manuscripts, grant proposals, and collaborative research efforts

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field
• Strong background in sp³-rich small-molecule synthesis
• Experience with, or strong interest in, covalent chemistry
• Ability to work independently in a rigorous, collaborative research environment

Preferred (but Not Required) Qualifications

• Experience with chemoproteomics, or proteome-wide target discovery
• Experience with targeted protein degradation
• Experience interfacing synthetic chemistry with cell-based assays
• Prior exposure to drug discovery
• Interest in mentoring and lab leadership

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit their application through Academic Job Online. A complete application should include:

1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Research statement describing prior experience
4. Three letters of recommendation