Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemistry for Novel Antimicrobials

Location: Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FZ

Salary:

Research Grade 7: £39,424 - £47,779 with a discretionary range to £53,483 p.a. (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).

Advert text –  An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to join the Centre for Medicines Discovery (CMD) within the Nuffield Department of Medicine. Funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation through the Antimicrobial Grand Challenges (Gr-ADI) initiative, this role forms part of an ambitious international programme to identify novel chemical scaffolds for Klebsiella targets. You will work within a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment at the interface of medicinal chemistry, structural biology, and antimicrobial drug discovery, contributing to research with clear translational potential.

You will design and synthesise small molecules informed by protein–ligand co-crystal structures, developing structure–activity relationships and progressing fragment hits towards optimised leads. Working closely with chemists, biologists, and structural scientists, you will analyse spectroscopic and biological screening data, adapt and develop synthetic methodologies, and contribute to high-throughput chemistry campaigns. You will communicate results through reports, meetings, and publications, maintain accurate electronic laboratory records, and contribute to wider project planning, including the generation of new research ideas and funding opportunities.

You will hold a PhD/DPhil (or be close to completion) in organic or medicinal chemistry or a related discipline, with strong experience in small-molecule synthesis and characterisation. You will be well organised, able to manage your own research activities, and confident working within a multidisciplinary team. Excellent communication skills are essential, alongside the ability to adapt to changing priorities and maintain high-quality experimental records. A genuine interest in antimicrobial drug discovery is required. Experience in fragment-based or structure-based drug design, pre-clinical development, coding, or working in integrated drug discovery environments would be advantageous.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 28^th February 2029 and is funded by Novo Nordisk Fonden.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 27^th January 2026 will be considered. Please quote 183841 on all correspondence.

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