Staff Scientist

The Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry is a multidisciplinary research laboratory focused on discovering and understanding bioactive small molecules and biologics. LBC integrates organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, natural-products chemistry, structural biology, and chemical biology to address fundamental questions in membranous intracellular biology and develop molecular tools for therapeutic use.

Our projects span:

• Bioactive natural product discovery and biosynthesis
• Mechanistic enzymology
• Chemical biology of infectious, metabolic, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases
• Development of synthetic oligomers, antibodies, nanobodies, and conjugated biologics
• Mechanistic studies of molecular interactions relevant to HIV/AIDS, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic pain, and metabolic disorders

An essential pillar of our work is state-of-the-art analytical chemistry, particularly high-resolution mass spectrometry. As such, we are now seeking an outstanding Ph.D.-level mass spectrometrist to lead an advanced LC/MS/MS high-resolution mass spectrometry facility. The ideal scientist will view mass spectrometry not merely as instrumentation, but as a powerful platform for discovery. The prospective candidate will be hired to operate and maintain sophisticated HRMS instrumentation, and will also serve as key intellectual partner to our chemists, chemical biologists, and structural biologists. He/She should be motivated by scientific rigor, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving, and take pride in generating data of the highest analytical quality.

Major Responsibilities include:

• Operate, maintain, and optimize advanced research-grade LC/MS/MS HRMS instrumentation
• Develop and refine analytical methods to ensure maximal data quality, sensitivity, and reproducibility
• Perform accurate mass measurements and advanced MS/MS analyses across diverse molecular classes (molecular weight ranges spanning from small molecules to antibodies)
• Collaborate with investigators to interpret MS data and contribute to structural determination and reaction analysis
• Ensure broad and equitable access to instrumentation while maintaining high standards of performance
• Troubleshoot instrumental errors and work with engineers to make repairs as needed
• Implement best practices in quality-control, documentation, and data-tracking
• Adapt methods to novel molecular architectures

Additionally, this position includes administrative and operational responsibilities consistent with a federally funded research environment, including:

• Oversight of instrument usage tracking, service contracts, maintenance schedules, and regulatory documentation
• Budgetary input related to instrument upkeep and upgrades
• Coordination with vendors and institutional offices

Lastly, we desired experience performing accurate mass and MS/MS analyses on the following:

• Small synthetic, drug-like molecules
• Complex natural products
• Peptides and natural products in the 1–5 kDa range
• Synthetic oligomers (e.g., nucleic acids, peptide nucleic acids)
• Nanobodies, antibodies, and antibody conjugates (up to ~80 kDa)
• Glycosylated and heavily modified biomolecules exceeding 80 kDa

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated independent research accomplishments, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications
• Postdoctoral or industry experience operating and maintaining high-resolution mass spectrometers coupled to HPLC or UPLC systems
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry and structural analysis
• Ability to interpret MS and MS/MS data to inform structure elucidation, reaction outcomes, and enzymatic transformations
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Commitment to rapid, high-quality data generation and scientific rigor

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading or co-managing a mass spectrometry facility
• Experience tracking instrument usage, sample metadata, LC conditions, and analytical parameters
• Familiarity with complex biomolecule characterization (biologics, conjugates, glycoproteins)
• Experience developing new analytical workflows for unconventional or emerging molecular classes

DHHS is an equal opportunity employer. The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs. Applications from underrepresented groups and female candidates are particularly encouraged. Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience. A full package of Civil Service benefits is available including retirement, health and life insurance, long-term care insurance, leave and savings plan (401 (k) equivalent). Appointments for this position are made as Staff Scientist and are open to all sources. The position is based in Bethesda, Maryland.