Research Associate Organic/Medicinal Chemistry

Cyclenium Pharma Inc.; Montreal; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A pharmaceutical company in Montreal is seeking a Research Associate in Organic and Medicinal Chemistry. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and execution of synthetic medicinal chemistry activities, contributing to drug discovery projects. Applicants should have a Master's in Chemistry and 3–5 years of relevant experience. This full-time position offers a dynamic work environment with a strong emphasis on teamwork and safety.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of relevant experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry.
• Strong knowledge of modern organic chemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Flexibility in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform multi-step synthesis of small molecules to support drug discovery.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure lab safety compliance.
• Design and execute synthesis and purification of compounds.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Analytical methods (NMR, MS, IR, chromatography, HPLC)

Problem-solving skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Computer programs, chemical drawing tools

Education

M.Sc. in Chemistry or related discipline

Job description

Research Associate Organic/Medicinal Chemistry

We are seeking a Research Associate in Organic and Medicinal Chemistry to join our team in Montreal. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of a senior member of the scientific staff and will be responsible for the design and execution of synthetic medicinal chemistry activities within the company’s internal and collaborative drug discovery projects. The role may also include additional responsibilities related to R&D activities, as may be assigned by the supervisor and senior management.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform multi‑step synthesis (3–10 steps) of small molecules, fragments, and building blocks to support internal and collaborative drug discovery efforts (milligram to gram scale)
• Design and execute synthesis, purification, and characterization of small molecules, macrocycles, and intermediates using solution or solid‑phase methods
• Purify compounds using flash chromatography, HPLC, crystallization, or distillation, and perform analytical characterization (NMR, IR, LC‑MS)
• Contribute to the development and optimization of synthetic routes for target molecules and intermediates
• Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure compliance with laboratory safety and operational procedures
• Prepare synthetic procedures and present results internally or at scientific meetings as required
• Support other R&D activities as assigned by the supervisor
• Plan work and complete tasks on schedule
• Maintain up‑to‑date records for all work performed and ensure a safe workplace
• Comply with all applicable laboratory safety and operational regulations and procedures

Experience and Skills Required

• M.Sc. in Chemistry or related discipline with a focus on organic synthesis
• 3–5 years of relevant experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, preferably in a Contract Research Organization (CRO) environment
• Strong knowledge of modern organic chemistry, laboratory techniques, and analytical methods (NMR, MS, IR, chromatography, HPLC)
• Experience or strong interest in macrocyclic compound synthesis
• Familiarity with solid‑phase, combinatorial, or peptide chemistry is considered an asset
• Proficiency with standard computer programs, chemical drawing tools, and electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN)
• Flexibility and ability to work successfully in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary, dynamic environment
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail and goal‑oriented mindset
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills
• Excellent organizational skills and proven ability to work effectively in a team environment

Application Process

Applications must be made by November 25th to the email [e-mail] with a CV and a brief research summary.

Seniority Level

Associate

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Research and Science

Industries

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Chemical Manufacturing, and Research Services