Senior Drug Discovery Scientist

Position Summary:

The Drug Discovery Scientist, Senior is a key individual contributor within the Molecular Design and Synthesis Center (MDSC) of the Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology (VICB). This position supports advanced drug discovery and chemical probe development through experimental design, chemical synthesis, compound analysis, and quality assurance. In addition to lead optimization and proof-of-concept probe studies, the Senior Scientist broadly supports the chemical synthesis needs of biomedical investigators across Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Research projects encompass a wide range of chemical modalities, including known and novel lipid oxidation products such as arachidonic acid metabolites, fluorescent and affinity probes to enable assay development, photoaffinity agents, modified nucleic acids, peptides, natural products, and other complex or novel small molecules. The Senior Scientist will also contribute to the design and synthesis of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and chemical probes for ion channel studies, with potential applications in high-throughput screening and commercialization. The role involves regular collaboration with investigators across pharmacology, engineering, imaging, biochemistry, and radiochemistry, as well as with faculty and scientists from other Vanderbilt centers and external partners.

About the Work Unit:

The Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology (VICB) is a multi-disciplinary institute within the Basic Sciences of the Vanderbilt School of Medicine. Founded in 2002, the VICB’s mission is to establish research and education programs in the application of chemical technologies to biological problems, with the long-term goal of improving human health. MDSC provides collaborative expertise and resources for the design, synthesis, and optimization of bioactive molecules, enabling transformative chemical biology and drug discovery efforts across campus and beyond.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Design and Synthesis of Compound Libraries

  • Provide a higher level of intellectual contribution to the design and synthesis of compound libraries as part of drug discovery efforts leading to preclinical candidates.

  • Perform independent compound analysis, document experimental procedures, and present results to investigators and core leadership.

  • Conduct occasional large-scale synthesis of advanced intermediates to support project advancement.

• Large-Scale Synthesis and Optimization

  • Carry out large-scale synthesis of key intermediates (up to 100 g) and multi-gram quantities of preclinical candidates to advance lead development and animal studies.

  • Verify compound purity (>98%) using NMR and LC-MS for all materials intended for in vivo evaluation.

  • Develop and optimize synthetic routes to complex molecules such as isotopically labeled lipid metabolites, unnatural nucleotides, and peptides.

  • Design and synthesize PROTACs in support of therapeutic lead discovery.

• Design and Synthesis of Chemical Probes

  • Synthesize known and novel chemical probes based on literature precedent, including candidates for ion channel studies with potential application in high-throughput screening and commercialization.

  • Review potency and DMPK data, assist with interpretation, and recommend compound series for further synthesis.

  • Collaborate closely with lead investigators, the radiochemistry group, and high-throughput screening directors and staff to advance discovery projects.

  • Present findings at biweekly synthesis team meetings and in project-specific collaborations.

  • Maintain current knowledge of modern chemical synthesis and drug discovery through literature review and seminar participation.

  • Contribute to experimental write-ups for patent applications and advise research staff as needed.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not include direct supervisory responsibility but may require advising and mentoring of research staff. The Senior Scientist reports administratively and functionally to the Principal Investigator and MDSC Director.

Education and Certifications:

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from an accredited institution of higher education (required).

Experience and Skills (required):

• At least 3 years of postdoctoral or equivalent industry research experience in chemical synthesis or drug discovery.

• Demonstrated expertise in organic synthesis, including the ability to design, troubleshoot, execute, and analyze complex experiments.

• Proven ability to independently manage research projects, interpret results, and contribute to strategic decision-making.

• Experience developing and optimizing synthetic routes for diverse small molecules, including nucleotides, peptides, lipids, and natural products.

• Familiarity with drug discovery processes, including lead optimization, structure–activity relationships, and probe development.

• Strong record-keeping skills with the ability to document experimental procedures and results accurately.

• Effective communication skills to present results, contribute to team discussions, and collaborate with colleagues across disciplines.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to mentor junior staff, work collaboratively across teams, and contribute to a positive laboratory culture.

• Receptiveness to constructive criticism and ability to incorporate feedback into scientific practice.

• Commitment to staying current with chemical literature and emerging trends in drug discovery.