Postdoctoral Research Associate in Medicinal Chemistry, University of Sydney, Australia

Summary

The School of Chemistry at the University of Sydney is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Medicinal Chemistry to contribute to groundbreaking drug discovery research. The successful candidate will work primarily on lead candidate optimization projects selected by MedChem Australia within a vibrant, world-class research environment. This is a full-time, 1-year fixed-term, lab-based role.

Designation

Postdoctoral Research Associate (Academic Level A, Step 6)

Key Position Overview

Research Area

• Medicinal Chemistry & Organic Chemistry
• Drug Discovery & Lead Candidate Optimization (in collaboration with MedChem Australia)

Location

• Campus: Camperdown Campus, The University of Sydney
• State/Country: New South Wales (NSW), Australia

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Academic Degree: A PhD (or near completion) in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related discipline, combined with relevant training/experience.
• Research Track Record: Demonstrated experience and ability to conduct high-quality research/scholarly activities under limited supervision (independently or collaboratively), with a record of peer-reviewed publications as sole author or co-author.
• Mentorship & Supervision: Experience in student supervision and laboratory mentoring at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Work Rights: Must hold unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of employment (visa sponsorship is not available for this position).
• Clearances: Successful completion of all University pre-employment background checks, including declarations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence.

Job Description

Primary Objectives

The role involves driving experimental synthetic and medicinal chemistry programs focused on optimizing lead molecules for therapeutic applications selected by MedChem Australia, while actively supporting the School of Chemistry’s broader teaching and research mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Optimization: Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize novel small-molecule compounds for drug discovery programs.
• Scholarly Output: Publish high-impact research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present research findings.
• Research Excellence & Funding Support: Assist with competitive grant writing, preparation of progress reports, and patent/intellectual property documentation where relevant.
• Teaching & Mentorship: Support departmental teaching activities and assist with supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research students in the laboratory.
• Laboratory Operations: Maintain accurate, reproducible research records and adhere to laboratory health and safety protocols.

How to Apply

1. External Applicants: Submit your application online directly via the University of Sydney Careers Portal by clicking the Apply button.
2. Internal Candidates / Contingent Workers: Log in to your Workday account, go to the Career icon on the dashboard, and search for job requisition 0152579.
3. Required Documents:
   • Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Cover Letter addressing suitability for the criteria
   • Supporting academic and professional documents
4. Enquiries: For role discussions or adjustment requests, contact Chris Masaoka (Recruitment Operations) at recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au.

Last Date to Apply

• Monday, 07 September 2026 (11:59 PM AEST)

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