Internal Applicants Only - Research Fellow (Chemistry)

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This post is currently open to employees of Cardiff University only.  Please do not apply if you do not have a current contract of employment with the University.

Internal Applicants Only - Research Fellow (Chemistry)
Cardiff School of Biosciences 

The Medicines Discovery Institute (MDI) represents a major investment in translational science by Cardiff University. The goal of the Institute is to translate world-leading research on scientific understanding of disease mechanisms into innovative therapeutic approaches. Our vision is to play a leading role in discovering new medicines in areas of high unmet need, with a particular emphasis on neuroscience, mental health, and cancer. We have created a vibrant community of researchers across both academic and biotech sectors engaged in major research programmes which build off the unique strengths of Cardiff University and work collaboratively with other universities and companies across Wales and internationally.

The Medicines Discovery Institute is looking to recruit a research fellow to support the medicinal chemistry activities of a MRC funded project to develop selective allosteric modulators of extrasynaptic δ-GABAA receptors for the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). In particular, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Medicinal Chemist to join our Late Lead Optimization team. The successful candidate will work alongside the project leader to develop the Medicinal Chemistry strategy of the project, contribute to the design and synthesis of analogues and coordinate activities with external partners and Contract Research Organisations. This will include leading the design and synthesis of novel compounds to improve potency, selectivity and pharmacokinetic properties; oversee structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to identify key molecular features; collaborate with cross-functional teams including biology, pharmacology, and DMPK (Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics) to drive project success; utilise advanced computational chemistry tools to guide compound design; analyse and interpret complex biological data to inform chemical modifications; prepare and present research findings to internal stakeholders, including senior management; mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment.

The post will be based at Cardiff University and will be part of a multi-disciplinary drug discovery team. For informal inquiries, please contact medicinesdiscovery@cardiff.ac.uk .

This position is full-time (35 hours per week) and is fixed term until 30 September 2026.

Salary: £50,694 - £55,295 per annum (Grade 7). Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances.

Closing date: Friday, 28 February 2025

External applications are currently not being considered for this post.  If the decision is made to open the post to external candidates, the strapline at the top will be removed and you will be given ample time to apply – please check back periodically for details.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds.  We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.  In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published. More information is available at:  Responsible research assessment - Research - Cardiff University

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Job Description

Main function 

Lead medicinal chemistry project and work alongside the project leader. To contribute to the research record of the Medicines Discovery Institute through commitment to carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.

The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the medicinal chemistry strategy of the project and manage the activities of a team of medicinal chemists.

Main duties and responsibilities 

Research

• To independently develop research objectives within Medicinal and Synthetic Chemistry, projects or proposals for own or joint research including research funding acting as a PI as required.
• Lead medicinal chemistry strategies and multi-disciplinary drug discovery teams, and demonstrate excellence in modern synthetic and medicinal chemistry and drug design.
• To develop research networks through regular national/international conference/seminar presentations
• To generate and pursue independent and original research ideas in the field of research and support the initiation of new lines of research in related areas
• To disseminate research findings using appropriate and effective national and international publications, research seminars, meetings and conferences
• To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions, explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects
• To supervise and develop other research staff within own research projects
• To provide guidance students in own specialist area, including supervising and assessing undergraduate projects
• To participate in School research activities

• To engage effectively with industrial, commercial and public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally to raise awareness of the School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.

• To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world.
• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

Person Specification

Your application will be assessed against the following essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please copy and paste this section into a new document and give clear examples of how you can evidence meeting each criteria by writing under each one. You can draw on elements from any aspect of your life (e.g. work, home, education/qualifications or community life) as long as you focus on their relevance to the role.

Please save your supporting statement in a separate document with the title [YOURNAME-BR NUMBER-JOB TITLE] and attach it to your application in the recruitment system.

Essential Criteria

Qualifications and Education

Job Category

Academic - Research