Please note that this job is open only to current members of staff of Cardiff University who are eligible for redeployment. Internal Redeployment Only - Research Associate (2 Posts) The Medicines Discovery Institute (MDI) represents a major investment in translational science by Cardiff University. The goal of the Institute is to translate world-leading research on scientific understanding of disease mechanisms into innovative therapeutic approaches. Our vision is to play a leading role in discovering new medicines in areas of high unmet need, with a particular emphasis on neuroscience, mental health, and cancer. We have created a vibrant community of researchers across both academic and biotech sectors engaged in major research programmes which build off the unique strengths of Cardiff University and work collaboratively with other universities and companies across Wales and internationally. The Medicines Discovery Institute is looking to recruit Research Associates to support the medicinal chemistry activities of a MRC funded project to develop selective allosteric modulators of extrasynaptic δ-GABAA receptors for the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). In particular, we are seeking highly skilled and motivated Medicinal Chemists to join our Late Lead Optimization team. The successful candidates will work alongside the project team and contribute to the design, optimisation and synthesis of lead compounds to develop potential drug candidates. This will include the design and synthesis of novel compounds to improve potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties; conducting structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to identify key molecular features; utilise computational chemistry tools to guide compound design; analyze and interpret biological data to inform chemical modifications; preparing and presenting research findings to internal stakeholders. The posts will be based at Cardiff University and will be part of a multi-disciplinary drug discovery team. For informal inquiries, please contact medicinesdiscoverycardiff.ac.uk. These positions are full-time (35 hours per week), starting 1 April 2025 and fixed term until 31 March 2026. Salary: £40,247 – £45,163 per annum (Grade 6). Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances. Closing date: Wednesday, 5 March 2025 Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age. In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements. Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English. Main function To conduct Medicinal chemistry research and contribute to the overall research performance of the Medicines Discovery Institute and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same. Main Duties and Responsibilities Research To conduct research within Medicinal Chemistry making a significant contribution to a novel portfolio of neuroscience drug discovery projects through the design of efficient synthetic routes and the synthesis and characterisation of target molecules and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including bidding for funding, publishing in national academic journals and conferences, and the recruitment and supervision of postgraduate research students. Generate structure activity/property relationships within the late lead optimisation phase by the application of expert data analysis (predicted, biological, physiochemical etc.) to the design of prospective target molecules and generation of new intellectual property To attend and or present at conferences/seminars at a local and national level as required To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field To participate in School research activities. To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions, explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects Other To engage effectively with industrial, commercial and public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally to raise awareness of the School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile. To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance. To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role. Your application will be assessed against the following essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please copy and paste this section into a new document and give clear examples of how you can evidence meeting each criteria by writing under each one. You can draw on elements from any aspect of your life (e.g. work, home, education/qualifications or community life) as long as you focus on their relevance to the role. Please save your supporting statement in a separate document with the title [YOURNAME-BR NUMBER-JOB TITLE] and attach it to your application in the recruitment system. Essential Criteria Qualifications and Education Postgraduate degree at PhD level in a related subject area or equivalent or relevant industrial experience Knowledge, Skills and Experience An established expertise and proven portfolio of research and/or relevant industrial experience within the following research fields: Medicinal Chemistry Synthetic Chemistry Drug Discovery Proven ability to publish in national journals, national conferences and/or other research outputs Knowledge and understanding of competitive research funding to be able to develop applications to funding bodies Proven ability to synthesise, purify and characterise molecules and develop new synthetic routes and techniques Communication and Team Working Proven ability in effective and persuasive communication Ability to supervise the work of others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals Other Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and team-working within work Proven ability to work without close supervision Desirable Criteria Experience in using research database and electronic notebooks (for example Dotmatics). Knowledge of Central Nervous System Medicinal Chemistry Evidence of collaborations with industry. Proven ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the Higher Education community and/or pharmaceutical industry community. Evidence of ability to participate in and develop both internal and external networks and utilise them to enhance the research activities of the School