SDSU Research Foundation
Postdoctoral Research Scholar 0-5 yrs Experience
SDSU Research Foundation, San Diego, California, United States, 92189
Postdoctoral Research Scholar 0-5 yrs Experience
4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Overview
This position has been budgeted for $5,858.67 per month and is non-negotiable. The position is open until filled. All applications received by October 24, 2025 are guaranteed full consideration. All applicants are requested to submit a 2-page research summary including a statement on future research interests to bpurse@sdsu.edu. The Purse Lab at San Diego State University develops next-generation molecular tools and synthetic methods to advance nucleic acids chemical biology. Its research centers on the design of fluorescent nucleoside analogues and molecular probes that enable new ways to visualize, interrogate, and modulate nucleic acids in biological systems. The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at SDSU supports a broad portfolio of research in synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, and materials science. The department provides access to modern core facilities (NMR, MS, spectroscopy, imaging) and fosters collaborations at the campus, regional, national, and international levels across chemistry, biology, and biotechnology. Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities 75% Design and carry out multi-step organic syntheses of novel nucleoside / nucleobase analogues and derivative molecules. Develop and apply synthetic chemistry to whole oligonucleotides and nucleic acids. Purify, characterize, and validate synthetic intermediates and final compounds (e.g. NMR, MS, chromatography). Evaluate photophysical and spectroscopic properties of candidate probes. Work with collaborators and the internal team to integrate synthetic compounds into nucleic acid constructs or assays. Analyze and interpret results; troubleshoot synthetic and analytic challenges. Position Specific Responsibilities 20% Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations; contribute to research planning and strategy. Mentor or train graduate or undergraduate students in synthetic methods and lab practices. Attend lab meetings, seminars, and participate in departmental and university activities as appropriate. Other Duties as Assigned 5% Qualifications
Core Knowledge and Abilities Deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including reaction design, optimization, purification, and structural characterization. Strong command of spectroscopic methods (¹H/¹³C NMR, mass spectrometry, chromatography, etc.). Strong problem-solving skills, initiative, intellectual independence, and ability to plan and execute experiments. Excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to document work clearly and present results. Ability and enthusiasm to work in multi-disciplinary, inclusive, and collaborative environments. Project Specific Knowledge And Abilities Familiarity with nucleoside / nucleobase chemistry or nucleic acid analogues (or willingness to learn quickly). Understanding (or ability and desire to develop understanding) of photophysical and fluorescent probe behavior in biologically relevant media. Ability to work with biophysical / biochemical collaborators (e.g. for evaluating probe behavior). Sensitivity to the demands of designing minimally perturbing molecular probes that integrate with nucleic acid frameworks. Minimum Education & Experience A doctoral degree in an appropriate field 0-5 years of relevant experience Preferred Qualifications & Special Skills PhD. in organic chemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline, to be completed before appointment. Demonstrated record of creativity and research productivity (e.g. publications, presentations, successful projects during Ph.D.). Experience performing multi-step syntheses, purification, and structural verification. Prior experience in nucleic acid chemistry (e.g. oligonucleotide synthesis, nucleobase analogues, nucleoside modification). Experience working with photophysical, spectroscopic, or biophysical assays (fluorescence spectroscopy, binding assays, etc.). Experience mentoring or training more junior students or staff. Demonstrated ability to contribute to collaborative projects and to interface with external partners or industry collaborators. An awareness of challenges in probe design (e.g. steric perturbation, fluorescence quenching) and prior examples in literature. Additional Applicant Information Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire. Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check). SDSU Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law. Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. SDSU Research Foundation complies with applicable civil rights laws and maintains a nondiscrimination policy that prohibits discriminatory practices and harassment in all programs, policies, and practices.
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4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Overview
This position has been budgeted for $5,858.67 per month and is non-negotiable. The position is open until filled. All applications received by October 24, 2025 are guaranteed full consideration. All applicants are requested to submit a 2-page research summary including a statement on future research interests to bpurse@sdsu.edu. The Purse Lab at San Diego State University develops next-generation molecular tools and synthetic methods to advance nucleic acids chemical biology. Its research centers on the design of fluorescent nucleoside analogues and molecular probes that enable new ways to visualize, interrogate, and modulate nucleic acids in biological systems. The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at SDSU supports a broad portfolio of research in synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, and materials science. The department provides access to modern core facilities (NMR, MS, spectroscopy, imaging) and fosters collaborations at the campus, regional, national, and international levels across chemistry, biology, and biotechnology. Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities 75% Design and carry out multi-step organic syntheses of novel nucleoside / nucleobase analogues and derivative molecules. Develop and apply synthetic chemistry to whole oligonucleotides and nucleic acids. Purify, characterize, and validate synthetic intermediates and final compounds (e.g. NMR, MS, chromatography). Evaluate photophysical and spectroscopic properties of candidate probes. Work with collaborators and the internal team to integrate synthetic compounds into nucleic acid constructs or assays. Analyze and interpret results; troubleshoot synthetic and analytic challenges. Position Specific Responsibilities 20% Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations; contribute to research planning and strategy. Mentor or train graduate or undergraduate students in synthetic methods and lab practices. Attend lab meetings, seminars, and participate in departmental and university activities as appropriate. Other Duties as Assigned 5% Qualifications
Core Knowledge and Abilities Deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including reaction design, optimization, purification, and structural characterization. Strong command of spectroscopic methods (¹H/¹³C NMR, mass spectrometry, chromatography, etc.). Strong problem-solving skills, initiative, intellectual independence, and ability to plan and execute experiments. Excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to document work clearly and present results. Ability and enthusiasm to work in multi-disciplinary, inclusive, and collaborative environments. Project Specific Knowledge And Abilities Familiarity with nucleoside / nucleobase chemistry or nucleic acid analogues (or willingness to learn quickly). Understanding (or ability and desire to develop understanding) of photophysical and fluorescent probe behavior in biologically relevant media. Ability to work with biophysical / biochemical collaborators (e.g. for evaluating probe behavior). Sensitivity to the demands of designing minimally perturbing molecular probes that integrate with nucleic acid frameworks. Minimum Education & Experience A doctoral degree in an appropriate field 0-5 years of relevant experience Preferred Qualifications & Special Skills PhD. in organic chemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline, to be completed before appointment. Demonstrated record of creativity and research productivity (e.g. publications, presentations, successful projects during Ph.D.). Experience performing multi-step syntheses, purification, and structural verification. Prior experience in nucleic acid chemistry (e.g. oligonucleotide synthesis, nucleobase analogues, nucleoside modification). Experience working with photophysical, spectroscopic, or biophysical assays (fluorescence spectroscopy, binding assays, etc.). Experience mentoring or training more junior students or staff. Demonstrated ability to contribute to collaborative projects and to interface with external partners or industry collaborators. An awareness of challenges in probe design (e.g. steric perturbation, fluorescence quenching) and prior examples in literature. Additional Applicant Information Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire. Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check). SDSU Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law. Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. SDSU Research Foundation complies with applicable civil rights laws and maintains a nondiscrimination policy that prohibits discriminatory practices and harassment in all programs, policies, and practices.
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