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Postdoc Total Synthesis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

D. in Organic Chemistry with expertise in total synthesis, reaction methodology, mechanistic chemistry, and/or process development * Postdoctoral experience in academia or the pharmaceutical ...

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What are some typical challenges a Postdoc in Total Synthesis might encounter when working on complex molecule construction projects?

Postdocs in Total Synthesis often face challenges such as designing efficient synthetic routes for complex molecular targets, troubleshooting unexpected reaction outcomes, and optimizing yields for each step. The work frequently requires a high level of creativity and resilience, as experiments can be time-consuming and sometimes result in setbacks. Collaboration with other researchers, including analytical chemists and computational experts, is common to overcome technical hurdles and interpret results accurately. Successfully navigating these challenges not only advances the project but also builds valuable problem-solving skills crucial for future roles in academia or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoc in Total Synthesis, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc in Total Synthesis, a strong background in organic chemistry, experience in multi-step synthesis, and a PhD in chemistry or a related field are essential. Expertise in techniques such as NMR, HPLC, mass spectrometry, and familiarity with chemical drawing and data analysis software are typically required. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective scientific communication are important soft skills for proposing innovative approaches and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure the successful design, execution, and dissemination of complex synthetic projects fundamental to advancing chemical research.

What is a Postdoc in Total Synthesis?

A Postdoc in Total Synthesis is a researcher who has completed their PhD and is conducting advanced research focused on the chemical synthesis of complex organic molecules, often natural products. These positions are typically found in academic or industrial labs and involve designing and executing multi-step synthesis projects. The goal is to develop new synthetic methods, understand reaction mechanisms, and sometimes create molecules with pharmaceutical or industrial relevance. Postdocs in this field work closely with principal investigators, publish research findings, and may mentor graduate students.
Infographic showing various Postdoc Total Synthesis job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 4% Full Time, 10% Temporary, and 83% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Mississippi State University

Starkville, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Mississippi State University rating

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Job description

Postdoctoral Associate
Job no: 510426
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month, Time-Limited
Department: 031900 - Chemistry
Location: Main Campus - Starkville, MS
Categories: Professional
Position Open Date: Apr 9 2026
Position Function:
Postdoctoral associate for studies in "Development of Synthetic Methodology and Applications in Natural Products Total Synthesis"
Salary Grade: UC
For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
For information on the Department of Chemistry, please visit www.chemistry.msstate.edu
Area of Specialization:
Chemistry
Anticipated Appointment Date:
May 16, 2026
Tenure Track Status:
N/A
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Operate and demonstrate leadership in laboratory safety.
• Design, plan and execute experiments to achieve project goals.
• Collect spectroscopic data to fully characterize all newly synthesized organic molecules.
• Write the experimental parts and draft manuscripts for submission of manuscripts acknowledging start-up support from Mississippi State University.
• Advise graduate and undergraduate students in the Lovely group.
• Organize, maintain and keep instrumentation and consumables of the lab.
Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in synthetic organic chemistry including skills in working in moisture and air free conditions. Extensive experience in acquiring and interpreting NMR spectra, including 2D-work.
Preferred Qualifications:
• PhD in synthetic organic methods development and applications to natural product total synthesis.
• Expertise in DFT calculations and ideally applications to NMR predictions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Expertise in synthetic chemistry - broad range of reactions.
• Accomplished purifications skills (chromatography, HPLC, etc.).
• Air-free chemistries.
• Mechanistic studies.
• Accomplished NMR spectroscopy.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Regularly involves lifting and bending. Often exposed to one or more elements such as heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt, chemicals, etc.
Instructions for Applying:
Interested candidates must apply msujobs.msstate.edu and submit the following materials:
1. Cover Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV), including a full list of publications.
3. Three most relevant publications.
4. A one-page statement of research interests.
5. Contact information for three references.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
Advertised: Apr 09 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:
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