If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

ChemistryJob Description

Smith College is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Departments of Chemistry and Engineering to conduct research into the development of combinatorial approaches for the efficient preparation of protein-polymer conjugates of interest in the context of targeted drug delivery. This is a full-time, 1 year grant-funded position in the laboratories of Professor Maren Buck and Professor Sarah Moore with the possibility of renewal. The desired start date is Summer 2023.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The postdoctoral fellow will conduct research within the framework of the NSF grant “RUI: Combinatorial Synthesis of Protein-Polymer Conjugates by Post-Polymerization Modification of Side-Chain Reactive Polymers,” which provides stipend, fringe benefits, and professional development funds for this position.

The goal of the proposed research is to develop side-chain reactive polymers for the efficient and modular synthesis of diversely-functionalized protein-polymer conjugates with a particular focus on bioconjugates useful for targeted delivery of therapeutics (for recent progress, see: DOI 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.9b00155). Specific experimental goals include the synthesis of well-defined copolymers bearing amine- or thiol-reactive side chains, conjugation of proteins to side-chain reactive polymers, purification and characterization of bioconjugates, and receptor-binding assays.

Other responsibilities include participation in weekly lab meetings and mentoring of undergraduate researchers in the laboratory. Participation in undergraduate courses is possible although not required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience: Ph.D. in organic chemistry, polymer or materials science, chemical or biomedical engineering, or a related discipline.

Skills: Qualified applicants will have expertise in organic or polymer synthesis. Experience working with proteins or mammalian cells is also desirable.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This is a 2-year, limited term position with the possibility for extension.

In addition to your cover letter and resume, please include a 2 page research summary.

For the care and safety of our community, Smith College requires that all employees be vaccinated as a condition of employment and as such, the incumbent will be required to be immunized against COVID-19 on or before their first day of employment. Proof of vaccination status will be required. Individuals may seek medical or religious exemption with HR, but must do so prior to their arrival.

Please attach BOTH a current resume and a cover letter in order for your application to be considered for this position . Be sure you have provided all attachments before submitting your application. You will NOT be able to attach additional files after you have hit the Submit button.

Review of applications will begin

April 5, 2023

Compensation Grade:

Grade X Exempt

Position Type:

Fixed Term

About Smith College

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 151B, it is the policy of Smith College to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our recruiting team at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

Diversity and a culture of inclusion among students, staff, faculty, and administration are crucial to the mission and values of Smith College. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, age, color, religions, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or veteran status in the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of any of its programs and activities, as specified by all applicable laws and regulations. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.