Research Associate

Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking university is seeking talented Research Associates to join their innovative Medicines Discovery Institute. This role focuses on the development of selective allosteric modulators for postpartum depression, blending cutting-edge research with practical applications in medicinal chemistry. The successful candidates will engage in the design, optimization, and synthesis of lead compounds, contributing to groundbreaking research aimed at addressing significant health challenges. Join a vibrant community dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into real-world therapeutic solutions, all while enjoying a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Highly skilled Medicinal Chemists needed for drug discovery.
• Experience in lead optimization and compound synthesis is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel compounds for drug candidates.
• Conduct SAR studies and analyze biological data.

Skills

Medicinal Chemistry

Computational Chemistry

Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR)

Compound Design

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Biological Data Analysis Tools

Job description

Research Associate

19870BR

Cardiff School of Biosciences

Research

Advert

Research Associate (2 Posts)

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 Research Associates 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 highly skilled and motivated Medicinal Chemists to join our Late Lead Optimization team. The successful candidates will work alongside the project team and contribute to the design, optimisation and synthesis of lead compounds to develop potential drug candidates.

This will include the design and synthesis of novel compounds to improve potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties; conducting structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to identify key molecular features; utilise computational chemistry tools to guide compound design; analyze and interpret biological data to inform chemical modifications; preparing and presenting research findings to internal stakeholders.

The posts will be based at Cardiff University and will be part of a multi-disciplinary drug discovery team. For informal inquiries, please contact [e-mail].

These positions are full-time (35 hours per week), starting 1 April 2025 and fixed term until 31 March 2026.

Salary: £40,497 – £45,413 per annum (Grade 6). Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances.

Date advert posted: Thursday, 17 April 2025

Closing date: Thursday, 8 May 2025

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 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.