Research Technician (Straub Lab)

University of Pittsburgh

Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology

Laboratory Research Technician II

Position Summary: A Research Technician II position is available immediately in the Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh. This is a staff scientist role embedded within a drug discovery program focused on cardiovascular disease. The successful candidate will lead the design and synthesis of novel small molecules, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to advance compounds from concept through preclinical evaluation. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Key Responsibilities: The Research Technician II will be responsible for the design, synthesis, and optimization of novel small molecules targeting cardiovascular disease pathways, applying structure-activity relationship (SAR) principles and medicinal chemistry strategies. The candidate will use computational tools and scientific literature to guide hit identification, lead optimization, and candidate selection, and will execute multi-step organic syntheses including route development, troubleshooting, and scale-up of promising compounds for biological evaluation. Compound characterization will be performed using NMR, LC-MS, HPLC, and related analytical techniques. The candidate will work closely with pharmacology colleagues to interpret in vitro and in vivo biological data and use these findings to drive iterative compound design. Maintaining an organized compound library and accurate chemical inventory is expected. The candidate will be responsible for maintaining detailed and up-to-date laboratory notebooks, records, and sample inventory logs, managing reagent and supply ordering, overseeing equipment maintenance, and developing standard operating protocols. The role also includes analyzing experimental data, preparing scientific reports, contributing to peer-reviewed publications, and assisting in the preparation of grant proposals. The candidate will be expected to collaborate with all laboratory members, fostering their development in synthetic chemistry and scientific professionalism.

Qualifications: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field. A strong background and hands-on proficiency in medicinal chemistry are required, including experience with multi-step organic synthesis, reaction optimization, and purification of synthetic intermediates and final compounds using techniques such as flash column chromatography, preparative HPLC, recrystallization, or related methods. Candidates are also required to use SciFinder or other scientific databases to identify synthetic methodologies and reaction precedents. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, LC-MS, and HPLC, as well as a solid understanding of SAR principles and drug-like property optimization including ADMET considerations. Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accurate record-keeping are essential.

Location and Commitment: This is a full-time, in-person position based at the University of Pittsburgh. The role requires regular on-site attendance and active participation in laboratory meetings, departmental seminars, and collaborative research sessions.

Disclaimer

The job duties outlined in this job description include common job responsibilities for this title and level and are not intended to be exhaustive. The University reserves the right to assign other duties not listed in this job description.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Computer work: walking from place to place; standing and sitting to perform essential tasks. Good manual dexterity.

Lifting and stacking of boxes of supplies, standing for extended periods required to fulfill workload. Light - Maximum lifting of up to 20 lbs. With frequent lifting/carrying of up to 10 lbs. or a negligible amount; significant walking or standing may be required or may involve sitting with a degree of pushing and pulling.