Research Assistant Professor

Cooperative Education; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

George Mason University in Fairfax, VA seeks a Research Assistant Professor to lead an externally funded program in synthetic organic chemistry and natural product synthesis. The role emphasizes mentoring graduate and undergraduate researchers and publishing high-impact work.

The position requires a Ph.D. in Chemistry or closely related field, a track record in spectroscopy (NMR, MS, IR), and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. On-site work is required.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree in chemistry or closely related field.
• Ph.D. required prior to starting appointment.
• Ability to mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and publish work.

Responsibilities

• Lead externally funded synthetic organic chemistry research.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and publish findings.
• Collaborate across departments and manage research projects and SOPs.

Skills

Mentoring

Research leadership

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field

Tools

NMR

Mass spectrometry

IR spectroscopy

Job description

Department: College of Science

Classification: 12-month Research Faculty

Job Category:Research Faculty

Job Type:Full-Time

Work Schedule:Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type:On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility:Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary:Salary commensurate with education and experience

About the Department:

The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry in the College of Science (COS) at George Mason University has research labs and faculty distributed over three campuses, addressing three primary research thrust areas: the Fairfax campus (materials, energy, and sustainability); the Science and Technology campus in Manassas (biomedical-biochemistry and synthetic organic chemistry); and the Potomac Environmental Research & Education Center (environmental chemistry). The research funding portfolio includes the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), other government and non-profit agencies, and private industry. By leveraging the rich resources available at Mason, the research groups at the Science and Technology campus remain on the leading edge of biomedical and biotechnology research.
George Mason University, a Carnegie Research I institution, is Virginia's largest and most diverse university with more than 39,000 students representing all 50 states and more than 135 countries. Located in Fairfax, Virginia, Mason is part of the Washington, DC metropolitan area, offering easy access to the scientific and political resources of the nation’s capital.
Statement on Building an Inclusive Culture

George Mason University College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing inclusive excellence and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation throughout our STEM community. At Mason Science, our values include cultivating an organizational culture that promotes belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that varied opinions, cultures, and perspectives are what provide vibrancy, innovation, and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing cultural responsiveness in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.

About the Position:

The Research Assistant Professor will conduct an externally funded research program in synthetic organic chemistry and natural product synthesis; provide expertise in 1D/2D NMR, mass spectrometry, and IR spectroscopy; mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers; lead collaborative research efforts; and publish high-impact scholarly work.

Responsibilities:

• Provides administrative and operational support for the Center for Molecular Engineering, including preparing and submitting reports, maintaining inventory records, monitoring stock levels, and coordinating inventory replenishment as needed;
• Researches methods for implementation into short courses and building student capabilities in research, including carrying out and optimizing research methods, writing SOPs, and passing on know-how to the research group; and
• Mentors students and/or postdoctoral researchers on research projects, including meeting one-on-one to provide guidance in research techniques, help interpret research results, and assist in proposing solutions to research challenges.

Required Qualifications:

• Terminal degree in a related field;
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline prior to starting this appointment is required; and
• Ability to mentor at undergraduate and graduate levels; a commitment to conducting research with graduate (Ph.D. and MS) and undergraduate students; and the capability to conduct impactful research, as evidenced by a strong record of publications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Postdoctoral experience in synthetic organic chemistry, natural product synthesis, spectroscopy, or a related field preferred;
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent research in synthetic organic chemistry and natural product synthesis, including the use of NMR, MS, and IR techniques; a record of peer-reviewed publications; and experience in student mentoring;
• Experience leading multidisciplinary research teams, supervising trainees, managing collaborative projects, and contributing to grant-funded research programs; and
• Knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, natural product synthesis, and advanced spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D NMR, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy; demonstrated skill in research mentoring and laboratory leadership; and the ability to secure external funding and publish impactful research.

Posting Open Date:August 17, 2026

For Full Consideration, Apply by:September 6, 2026

Posting Close Date:September 7, 2026

Open Until Filled:No