Postdoctoral Fellow - Organic Chemistry
University of Alberta
- Edmonton, AB
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Carrying out synthesis of small organic molecules as novel reference standards used for metabolomic research. The relevant compounds are generally biomarkers and will be used to prepare standard solutions for LC-MS analyses of biofluids.
- Performing synthesis of isotopically labelled derivatizing reagents used for Isotope Coded Derivatization (ICD).
- Designing and synthesizing novel small molecule ICD reagents useful for LC-MS and GC-MS analyses.
- Purifying synthesized compounds using various techniques such as flash chromatography, preparative TLC or HPLC, to achieve the desired high purity level.
- Optimizing the synthetic conditions and scaling up of the reagents as required.
- Optimizing of the reaction conditions for the derivatization of the metabolites using the synthesized reagents.
- Synthesizing libraries of derivatized metabolites including amino acids which can be directly used as LC-MS standards for quantification.
- Analyzing the synthesized compounds by LC-MS, NMR and other platforms as needed for characterization as well as for quantification.
- Presentation of research results in laboratory meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences
- Preparation of research papers, presentations, and publications under the direction of the trust holder.
- Performs literature reviews to determine feasible experimental options for the development of methods to synthesize compounds of interest.
- Coordinates equipment and lab activities with other laboratory and project staff to facilitate project progress.
- Works with a high degree of independence following a research plan approved by the Pl.
- Writes first draft of manuscripts.
- Prepares abstracts for conference meetings and presents these research findings at meetings.
- PhD in synthetic organic chemistry.
- Clear understanding of the scope and role of organic chemistry in metabolomic research.
- Experience in handling hazardous reagents including isotopically labelled compounds.
- Experience in synthesis of small molecules and their purification using liquid chromatography/preparative HPLC/preparative TLC. In-depth knowledge and experience in purification techniques is a must as the synthesized compounds are required to be of high purity which will be used for sensitive LC-MS analyses required for metabolomic research.
- Thorough knowledge of performing milligram scale reactions for optimization as well as scale up to the multigram stage is required.
- Ability to work independently on complex research projects and report and publish the scientific outcomes under direct supervision of trust holder.
- Ability to work on multiple projects.
- Maintaining a safe and collegial working environment following Standard Operating Procedures for safety including WHIMIS guidelines.
- Experience in acquiring NMR and Mass spectral data for characterization of the compounds is an asset.
- Resume and Cover letter in one document
- Three references