OPS Research Assistant/Laboratory Technician

The Center for Natural Products, Drug Discovery and Development (CNPD3) is seeking a highly motivated person as a research assistant to support the research activities in the Molecular Diversity and Screening Core. The CNPD3 provides the infrastructure for small molecule and genomic screening while providing access to state-of-the-art equipment and compound libraries to facilitate drug discovery at UF. The successful candidate will carry out activities related to developing Natural Product Libraries from samples of marine and terrestrial origin and dispensing libraries to make them screening ready. The candidate will train to run NMR and LCMS instruments to acquire data for natural product sample libraries. The position is expected to assist in maintaining organized laboratory space, carry out routine equipment maintenance and order supplies for screening and analytical chemistry labs. Applicants should be flexible to adjust to the needs of the lab requirements and research focus. Should have previous lab experience in a chemistry/biochemistry research lab setting for at least one year. Working with natural product extraction and isolation, familiarity with a wide range of analytical equipment including high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometers and NMR is highly preferred. Candidate should have a keen interest in engaging in and supporting research work of other team members.

Job Description:

• Develop HPLC and LCMS methods for compound dereplication to profile natural product fraction libraries.
• Carry out HPLC purification of compounds and run basic NMR and LCMS experiments for compound dereplication.
• Independently operate NMR, LCMS instruments.
• Carry out extraction and initial fractionation of marine natural product samples to build up on existing natural product fraction libraries.
• Preparation of compound and natural product sample stocks for library dispensing in 96-well format. Maintain and update compound inventories for all existing CNPD3 libraries.
• Assist with the daily operations of the Center labs, including ordering lab supplies, maintaining lab cleanliness and inventories, routine maintenance of small equipment/facility records and trouble-shooting of equipment as needed; HPLC, freeze dryer, speedvac, rotary evaporators and other sample drying equipment and flash chromatography system.

The University of Florida College of Pharmacy values the benefit of having a team that consists of diverse talents, skills, strengths, points of view and experiences. The college is committed to cultivating an environment where everyone is respected for their intrinsic value, and developing the next generation of clinicians and scientists who will positively impact the health of others. We’re committed to creating a working environment where everyone can be heard and recognized for their contributions. In recognition of such efforts, the College of Pharmacy is the 3-time recipient of the Insight into Diversity Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award.

Commensurate with experience (Up to $20/hour)

BS in analytical chemistry or biochemistry with at least one year experience in a research lab setting as a student volunteer, staff or other.

MS with experience in natural product isolation, NMR, LCMS and related skills.

To be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references.

As a part of our review for research and research support positions, we look for a full CV which includes all professional appointments/engagements, all post-secondary education, and all publications from post-secondary education and all respective dates. Please be sure to not use acronyms in your CV. This CV should include names of entities associated with any projects.

This position is in-person and is not eligible for remote work.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.