Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry

Imperial College London; London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in London is seeking a Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry. The role involves developing innovative synthetic methods and reagents for medicinal chemistry applications. Candidates should hold a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry or have equivalent experience. The position offers an opportunity to work in a world-class research environment with a generous benefits package including extensive leave and pension schemes.

Benefits

39 days off a year

Generous pension schemes

Opportunities for promotion and progression

Qualifications

• Experience in a broad range of techniques including the synthesis of new organic compounds.
• Publication in relevant and refereed journals is an advantage.
• Practical experience of synthetic method development.

Responsibilities

• Develop new synthetic methods and reagents for medicinal chemistry.
• Manage the day-to-day progress of the project.
• Assist in the supervision of junior co-workers.

Skills

Strong track record in synthetic chemistry or catalysis

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Creative approach to problem-solving

Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision

Education

PhD in Synthetic Chemistry

Tools

Spectroscopic techniques

Chromatographic techniques

Job description

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Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry, London

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Client:

Imperial College London

Location:

London, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

6765b3638bde

Job Views:

5

Posted:

12.08.2025

Expiry Date:

26.09.2025

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Job Description:

Applications are invited for a Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry at Imperial College London. You will join the research group of Prof James A Bull.

The post is funded by the EPSRC on “Small Ring Carbocations forLate-StageFunctionalisation and Medicinal Chemistry”.

The project will develop synthetic chemistry methods and new reagents to incorporate medicinally relevant strained rings, building on recent works. You will take a leading role in the development of new methods and reagents, the establishment of bioisosterism, and the chemoselective functionalisation of medicinally relevant substrates. The reagents will also be applied to the functionalisation of biomolecules. For background and context see, Nature Chemistry 2022, 14, 160; J. Med. Chem. 2023, 66, 12697; J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2024, 146, 35377. For further details of the research group, see:

You will take a leading role in the development of new synthetic methods and reagents for the incorporation of 4-membered heterocyclic rings into medicinally relevant structure and for chemoselective functionalisation of complex substrates. You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day progress of the project, including the design and implementation of appropriate experiments and techniques utilising effective problem-solving skills where necessary. You will work with Prof Bull and members of the research team, as well as assist in the supervision of junior co-workers in the Bull group.

You will hold a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry or have equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience.

• Strong track record in synthetic chemistry or catalysis
• Practical experience within a research environment and / or publication in relevant and refereed journals
• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including the synthesis of new organic compounds, spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Practical experience of synthetic method development
• Knowledge of modern methods and techniques in synthetic organic chemistry and catalysis
• Knowledge of molecular properties in medicinal chemistry
• Ability to design new experiments and include appropriate controls
• Ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Creative approach to problem-solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• State of facilities in the Molecular Sciences Research Hub on the White City Campus.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).