Volunteer Metabolomics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Baccile Laboratory at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary chemical biology research program focused on five-carbon metabolism and the chemistry of isoprenoid biosynthesis. Research in the lab integrates synthetic organic chemistry, enzymology, and mass-spectrometry-based metabolomics to develop chemical probes and analytical tools for studying isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), and related prenylated metabolites across biological systems including bacteria and mammalian cells. 

The successful candidate will contribute to projects involving the design and synthesis of small-molecule probes, development of enzyme-coupled assays, and application of LC-HRMS workflows to interrogate metabolic pathways. Candidates with a Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or a related field are encouraged to apply. Experience in synthetic organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, metabolomics, or enzymology is desirable, and the position is particularly well suited for applicants interested in developing interdisciplinary expertise at the interface of chemistry and biology.

Required Qualifications

Education: 

• Must have successfully defended and submitted dissertation by hire date, Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or a related field are encouraged to apply.

Experience: 

• Experience in synthetic organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, metabolomics, or enzymology is desirable, and the position is particularly well suited for applicants interested in developing interdisciplinary expertise at the interface of chemistry and biology.

• An excellent track record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer reviewed journals.

• Strong verbal and writing skills. The candidate must be willing to work independently and collaboratively with group members, and preferably also with experimental collaborators. The candidate must also be willing to mentor the graduate students in the group from time to time.

• Motivated and safety conscious.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 

• Ability to set priorities, multi-task and adapt to ever changing needs with the proven ability to function well in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience: 

• Experience in synthetic organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, metabolomics, or enzymology is desirable, and the position is particularly well suited for applicants interested in developing interdisciplinary expertise at the interface of chemistry and biology.

Work Location 

• Knoxville, TN, on site

Compensation and Benefits

• Anticipated hiring range: $54,000
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions 

The salary for this position is commensurate with experience and other qualifications. This is a regular, full-time, 12-month, non-tenure track staff position.  The appointment begins in Summer 2026 and will continue for 12 months. 

For full consideration, please provide the following in the application file: 

• Cover letter

• Curriculum vitae

• Transcript

A review of all applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

About The Department

The University of Tennessee in Knoxville is the flagship educational institution in the State of Tennessee, and the Department of Chemistry is its oldest PhD granting Department.  We offer a long-standing tradition of excellence in chemical research and education, stretching from 1947, when the department granted the University's first PhD degree, to the present.  We have people from diverse cultures providing an international business environment.

• The ideal postdoctoral research associate candidate will work on assigned research projects as well as mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

• The postdoctoral research associate candidate must be knowledgeable and experienced in chemical biology, analytical chemistry and/or molecular and cell biology.

• Responsible for presenting and reporting research results and publishing scientific results in peer reviewed journals in a timely manner.

• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.

• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.