Lead Research Chemist - Therapeutics & SAR

RTI International; Few (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

RTI International is seeking aResearch Chemist to join its Center for Therapeutics, Toxicology, and Devices. You will design and conduct organic synthesis experiments, develop analytical methods, and help guide SAR-driven compound development while collaborating with computational chemists.

The role requires a PhD in chemistry with 3+ years in organic chemistry and purification. You will mentor staff, prepare reports, and present findings to clients and stakeholders in a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry or a directly related discipline, plus at least three years of directly related experience.
• Hands-on experience with a broad range of organic reactions and purification strategies.
• Experience applying analytical methods and chemical characterization techniques to organic chemistry research.
• Ability to interpret experimental results and use SAR trends to inform research decisions.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform detailed, accurate work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain scientific findings to varied audiences.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and statistical computing software.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct organic synthesis experiments using established methods and, when appropriate, develop or adapt approaches to address research challenges.
• Perform chemical reactions, complex purifications, and compound characterization to support project objectives.
• Develop and apply analytical methods to evaluate compound identity, purity, and other relevant chemical properties.
• Contribute to dose formulation development and characterization, as required by project needs.
• Interpret chemical and related in vitro data to identify SAR trends and recommend next steps for compound design and synthesis.
• Collaborate with computational chemists and other research scientists to integrate experimental findings and guide research decisions.
• Lead assigned project activities, coordinating technical work and managing competing priorities to meet project milestones.
• Design research activities that build on the team’s collective expertise and advance project objectives.
• Prepare technical reports, proposal sections, and presentations that clearly communicate research methods, findings, and recommendations.
• Present research findings to clients, collaborators, and audiences at professional meetings.
• Contribute to project development and proposal activities by communicating RTI’s technical capabilities to internal and external stakeholders.
• Review colleagues’ scientific work and provide constructive technical feedback.
• Mentor junior staff through technical guidance, performance feedback, and support for professional development.
• Maintain accurate, complete research records and follow applicable laboratory safety and quality requirements.
• Perform scheduled instrument maintenance independently and participate in internal and external audits, as needed.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Purification techniques

Analytical chemistry

SAR analysis

Scientific writing

Time management

Communication skills

Education

PhD in chemistry or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

PowerPoint

Excel

Statistical software

Job description

RTI International is seeking aResearch Chemist to join its Center for Therapeutics, Toxicology, and Devices. You will design and conduct organic synthesis experiments, develop analytical methods, and help guide SAR-driven compound development while collaborating with computational chemists.

The role requires a PhD in chemistry with 3+ years in organic chemistry and purification. You will mentor staff, prepare reports, and present findings to clients and stakeholders in a dynamic team environment.