Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term East Lansing, Michigan, United States Pharmacology Toxicology 10034646 Area of Interest: Research/Scientific Full Time/Part Time: Full Time (90-100%) Group: Fixed Term Academic Staff Union/Non-Union: Non-Union Faculty/Academic Staff Opening on: Sep 22 2026 Closing at: Sep 22 2028 - 23:55 EDT Salary Commensurate with Experience College Of Osteopathic Medicine 1168297 Position Summary
The Lee laboratory at Michigan State University (MSU) is seeking a highly motivated, creative, and collaborative Postdoctoral Scholar in synthetic/medicinal chemistry or chemical biology to join our multidisciplinary drug discovery team. The scholar will play a key role in three translational programs focused on (1) neurological disorders, (2) metabolic disorders, and (3) a rare genetic neurodegenerative disease.
This position will be for a one-year, fixed term role with the possibility of renewal depending on performance and funding availability. Supported by the MSU Research Foundation (MSURF) Postdoctoral Scholar Program, this position is designed for a talented recent PhD who wants to expand beyond synthetic chemistry and develop into a well-rounded drug discovery scientist. The scholar will design and synthesize novel
small molecules while receiving hands-on training in SAR/lead optimization, high-throughput screening, in vitro ADME/drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics and PK modeling, target engagement, and in vivo pharmacology. Prior expertise in these areas beyond synthetic chemistry is not required—we are looking for someone who is eager to learn, highly coachable, receptive to feedback, and enthusiastic about developing new
scientific skills and has demonstrated has good communication and collaborative skills. Key responsibilities and opportunities include: Design and synthesize novel small molecules and optimize their potency and drug-like properties. Integrate medicinal chemistry, ADME/PK, target-engagement, and in vivo data to guide lead optimization. Collaborate closely with chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, and other
scientists on multidisciplinary drug discovery projects. Participate in high-throughput in vivo screening to discover therapeutic targets and candidates for a rare neurodegenerative disease. Apply emerging technologies, including AI-assisted drug discovery, where scientifically appropriate. Publish high-impact research, present at scientific meetings, and contribute to manuscripts and proposals. Receive dedicated
Summary from the source posting. Always confirm details on the institution's official career page.