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$59K

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How much do postdoctoral small molecules jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral small molecules in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are postdoctoral small molecules researchers?

Postdoctoral small molecules researchers are scientists who have completed their PhD and are engaged in advanced research related to the discovery, synthesis, and analysis of small molecule compounds. These researchers often work in academic, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology settings, contributing to projects such as drug development, chemical biology, or medicinal chemistry. Their work involves designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings that can lead to new therapeutics or scientific insights. Postdoctoral positions are typically temporary and focused on gaining specialized skills and experience before moving into more permanent roles.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers working with small molecules, and how can they overcome them?

Postdoctoral researchers focusing on small molecules often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex synthetic pathways, optimizing reaction yields, and ensuring compound purity. They may also need to interpret ambiguous analytical data and manage tight project timelines. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, including chemists, biologists, and analytical specialists, is crucial for overcoming these hurdles. Staying organized, seeking mentorship, and leveraging available instrumentation and expertise within the lab can significantly improve problem-solving and project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher specializing in Small Molecules, and why are they important?

To excel as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Small Molecules, you typically need a PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field with a strong background in organic synthesis and molecular characterization. Familiarity with analytical tools such as NMR, HPLC, mass spectrometry, and computational chemistry software, along with experience in laboratory best practices, is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies ensure rigorous scientific discovery, reproducible results, and productive teamwork in research-driven environments.
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Small Molecules job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Scientist/Senior Scientist, Small Molecule Discovery

Tenvie Therapeutics, Inc

Brisbane, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Scientist/Senior Scientist, Small Molecule Discovery
Tenvie Therapeutics is developing precision-engineered small molecule therapies to address core drivers of neurological and peripheral diseases: neuroinflammation and cellular dysfunction. Leveraging its proprietary product engine, Tenvie has the unique ability to advance both fully CNS-penetrant and peripherally restricted products across a broad portfolio. Tenvie's most advanced programs, TNV262 and TNV108, are in Phase 1 clinical development. TNV262 is a fully CNS-penetrant NLRP3 inhibitor targeting cardiometabolic and neuroinflammatory indications, including obesity and cardiovascular disease, and multiple sclerosis. TNV108 is a peripherally restricted SARM1 allosteric inhibitor targeting peripheral neuropathies. Tenvie's clinical pipeline is complemented by discovery-stage programs across a range of related indications.
Tenvie Therapeutics is seeking a highly motived medicinal chemist to join the Small Molecule Discovery team and contribute to the discovery and advancement of innovative small molecule therapeutics. This role will play an important part in the design, execution, and interpretation of discovery-stage experiments, working closely with cross-functional colleagues in chemistry, pharmacology, biology, DMPK, and project teams. The ideal candidate is a rigorous scientist with strong molecular design & communication skills, sound scientific judgment, and a collaborative approach to advancing programs from early discovery through drug candidate nomination. This is an onsite role, reporting within the Small Molecule Discovery group.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, guide execution, and interpret experiments to support small molecule drug discovery programs including management of CRO teams & external resources
  • Utilize structure- and ligand-based rational design, in combination with machine learning & AI tools, to optimize early chemical matter across multiple parameters and efficiently deliver clinical candidates
  • Contribute to target validation, hit identification, hit-to-lead, and lead optimization activities
  • Partner closely with pharmacology, protein sciences, biology and other functions to develop and implement biochemical, cellular, and/or mechanistic assays to evaluate compound activity, potency, selectivity, and mechanism of action
  • Generate high-quality data, analyze results, and communicate findings clearly to project teams and across the organization
  • Summarize data in presentations, technical reports, and team discussions to support decision-making
  • Stay current with relevant scientific literature and apply emerging insights, technologies, and approaches to ongoing research
  • Contribute to a strong team culture grounded in scientific excellence, urgency, accountability, and collaboration

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • PhD in chemistry or a related scientific discipline, with 2+ years of relevant postdoctoral and/or industry experience preferred
  • Meaningful hands-on experience in drug discovery research in an academic, biotech, or pharmaceutical setting
  • Strong experience designing to support small molecule discovery
  • Deep understanding of molecular design, data interpretation, and experimental controls
  • Experience working in cross-functional discovery teams with biology and pharmacology partners
  • Familiarity with small molecule optimization principles, including potency, selectivity, and translational relevance
  • Strong scientific communication skills, including the ability to present complex data in a clear and concise manner
  • Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative biotech environment
  • High level of intellectual curiosity, scientific rigor, flexibility, and attention to detail

Expected salary range:
  • $120,000-160,000 annual base salary

Tenvie is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our goal is to have a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or disability or any other status protected under federal, state or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

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