Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab

Job Description We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist (1–2 years of experience following terminal degree) to join an NIH / NCI-funded drug discovery laboratory. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in the design and synthesis of small molecules , along with classical structure determination using modern spectroscopic methods ( ¹H, ¹³C, ¹⁹F NMR ) and mass spectrometry (MS) . You will bring fresh energy and ideas to ongoing discovery efforts and actively contribute to the research program.

Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists, the Postdoctoral Scientist will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout training period. May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.

Analyzes and interprets data. May assist in preparation of grant proposals. Participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author. Not responsible for generating grant funds.

Key Responsibilities

Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize small-molecule compounds.

Perform structure elucidation using ¹H / ¹³C / ¹⁹F NMR and MS; maintain meticulous experimental records.

Propose hypotheses, plan experiments, and interpret data to drive hit-to-lead optimization.

Author independent reports, manuscripts, and presentations; contribute to grant / research proposals.

Collaborate effectively with PI, staff scientists, students, and research assistants; help mentor junior team members.

Proactively identify technical challenges and propose innovative solutions.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

May assist in the preparation of grant proposals, but is not responsible for generating grant funds.

May participate in publications and presentations as author or co-author.

Designs and performs experiments. Will keep appropriate experimental records and documentation and analyze the results with the Principal Investigator.

May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.

Analyzes interpret, summarizes, and compiles data.

Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout the training period.

Operates and maintains equipment and instruments.

May observe MD-patient or MD-human research subject interactions as it pertains directly to research being performed.

Qualifications Requirements :

Doctorate (MD, PhD, VMD, or DDS) in area directly related to field of research specialization.

Desirable Qualifications

Experience in small-molecule synthesis and / or natural products' synthesis.

Experience in anticancer drug discovery research.

Demonstrated ability in organic synthesis.

Demonstrated ability to generate independent reports, publications, and ideas.

Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with laboratory members, including students and / or assistants.

To Apply

This position is available immediately. Please email a single PDF (or a consolidated set of documents) including :

Cover letter describing how you meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and outlining your research interests and career goals

Current curriculum vitae (CV)

3 references with contact information (including email addresses)

Send materials to : James Turkson, Ph.D. — james.turkson@cshs.org

Req ID : 12290

Working Title : Postdoctoral Scientist, Turkson Lab

Department : Cancer Institute

Business Entity : Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Job Category : Academic / Research

Job Specialty : Postdoctoral Scholar

Overtime Status : EXEMPT

Primary Shift : Day

Shift Duration : 8 hour

Base Pay : $30.00 - $45.00