Research Scientist/Postdoctoral Fellow

Position Summary The Department of Chemistry at Waynesburg University and Dr. Tak Suyama invite applications for a Research Scientist or a Teaching Postdoctoral Fellow in bio-organic chemistry/chemical biology. We enthusiastically invite candidates who have an interest in an academic career at a primarily undergraduate institution. The position is funded by an NSF research grant and by internal funding. The position may be renewable for a second year, depending on funding. The successful candidate will lead the efforts on the project and assist in mentoring undergraduate student researchers in Dr. Suyama's laboratory. Duties and Responsibilities The area of research is focused on the engineering of enzymes to develop a tool for the synthesis of natural products and other medicinally useful compounds. The candidate is expected to lead the NSF-funded project in the laboratory. There will be an emphasis on mentoring and supervising undergraduate research students. In addition, depending on the candidate's expertise and interests, maintenance of analytical instruments like LCMS and/or NMR may be a part of the responsibilities. Occasionally, the candidate may be expected to participate in the outreach activities associated with the project. The successful candidate may also teach one lab or lecture class per semester in general chemistry, non-science major chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or microbiology depending on the departmental needs and the candidate's expertise. The University Waynesburg University is a Christian higher education institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs both on the Waynesburg Campus and in adult centers in the Pittsburgh region. Directed by its Christian values, the University provides opportunities for scholarship, leadership and service to all of our students through an academic foundation for lifelong learning and compassionate contribution to others. Special care is taken to employ people who embody the values and perspectives of the institution in their teaching, their personal lives, and their relationships with students. The University is guided by a sound strategic vision and has served as a leader in service-learning, technology applications and student-centered learning among higher education institutions. The Waynesburg campus is located one hour from Pittsburgh. The University is a member of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities (APCU). For further information, please refer to the respective web page. For further information, please see the University's home page . Minimum Qualifications A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field and research experience in organic synthesis, bioorganic chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, genetics, or other related fields is required, a PhD is preferred. Excellent organizational and communicational skills and ability to work effectively with students, staff, and faculty. Demonstrated understanding of laboratory safety for self and others. Preferred Qualification A PhD, master's, or some graduate work in organic synthesis, bioorganic chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, genetics, or other related fields. Experience with organic synthesis, enzymatic chemistry, heterologous expression, mutagenesis, DNA sequencing, and/or LCMS analysis. Demonstrated ability to mentor and work with undergraduate students. Experience in teaching undergraduate chemistry or biology courses as a teaching assistant or as an instructor. Salary and Benefits Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Competitive insurance package including health, dental, and vision insurance options, in addition to a tuition waiver, and fitness facility access benefits are included. If requested, partially subsidized campus housing may be negotiated. Traveling to a scientific conference to present the candidate's work will be provided for. Application Process The review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates must submit a 1.) CV, 2.) a cover letter that includes a statement that articulates the relationship between his/her Christian faith and the Christian higher education mission of Waynesburg University, 3.) transcripts (copies are acceptable initially), 4.) the contact information of three references (name, phone, address, email), and 5.) a statement of research that describes the applicant's research experience and interests to: Waynesburg University, Human Resources, 51 W. College St. Waynesburg, PA 15370 . For further information, please see the University home page .