Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry

Location: White City Campus

About the role:

Applications are invited for a Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry at Imperial College London. You will join the research group of Prof James A Bull.

The post is funded by the EPSRC on “Small Ring Carbocations for Late-Stage Functionalisation and Medicinal Chemistry”.

The project will develop synthetic chemistry methods and new reagents to incorporate medicinally relevant strained rings, building on recent works. You will take a leading role in the development of new methods and reagents, the establishment of bioisosterism, and the chemoselective functionalisation of medicinally relevant substrates. The reagents will also be applied to the functionalisation of biomolecules. For background and context see, Nature Chemistry 2022, 14, 160; J. Med. Chem. 2023, 66, 12697; J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2024, 146, 35377.

For further details of the research group, see: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/j.bull

What you would be doing:

You will take a leading role in the development of new synthetic methods and reagents for the incorporation of 4-membered heterocyclic rings into medicinally relevant structure and for chemoselective functionalisation of complex substrates. You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day progress of the project, including the design and implementation of appropriate experiments and techniques utilising effective problem-solving skills where necessary. You will work with Prof Bull and members of the research team, as well as assist in the supervision of junior co-workers in the Bull group.

What we are looking for:

You will hold a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry or have equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience.

Essential criteria include:

• Strong track record in synthetic chemistry or catalysis
• Practical experience within a research environment and / or publication in relevant and refereed journals
• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including the synthesis of new organic compounds, spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Practical experience of synthetic method development
• Knowledge of modern methods and techniques in synthetic organic chemistry and catalysis
• Knowledge of molecular properties in medicinal chemistry
• Ability to design new experiments and include appropriate controls
• Ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Creative approach to problem-solving
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• State of facilities in the Molecular Sciences Research Hub on the White City Campus.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

The project is funded by EPSRC and will start from December 2025 for up to 16 months (fixed term contract). You will be based at the new MSRH building on the White City Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant.

Candidates should complete the online application.

If you require any further details on the role please contact:

Prof James A Bull j.bull@imperial.ac.uk

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