Postdoctoral Research Associate-Organic Synthetic Chemist
Ora
Summary
We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic Chemistry to advance selective recognition of lanthanide ions. The successful candidate will design, synthesize, purify, and characterize new compounds and help evaluate their metal-ion binding and separation performance using analytical methods.
Job description
Overview
We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic Chemistry to advance selective recognition of lanthanide ions. The successful candidate will design, synthesize, purify, and characterize new compounds and help evaluate their metal-ion binding and separation performance using analytical methods.
Major Duties/Responsibilities
- Design and synthesize organic ligands through multistep synthesis.
- Purify compounds using methods such as crystallization, normal- or reversed-phase chromatography, sublimation, and vacuum distillation.
- Characterize compounds using techniques such as NMR, FTIR, and UV–visible spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry.
- Contribute to experimental planning and evaluate how ligand structure affects lanthanide recognition and separation.
- Present results at team, group and project meetings and national conferences.
- Publish research in peer-reviewed journals, with a goal of at least two publications per fiscal year.
Basic Qualifications
- PhD in organic chemistry or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years
Preferred Qualifications
- PhD in organic chemistry or a closely related field completed within the last 3 years
- Experience in photochemistry, crystallization of ligand–metal complexes, stability constant measurements, or ICP-OES or ICP-MS measurement and data interpretation.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
- Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
Special Requirements
- Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.
- This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check.
Requirements
- PhD in organic chemistry or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years
- Must complete all degree requirements before starting appointment
- Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge
- Must pass a Federal Tier 1 background check
- Experience in photochemistry, crystallization of ligand–metal complexes, stability constant measurements, or ICP-OES or ICP-MS measurement and data interpretation
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently and participate creatively in collaborative teams
- Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment and adapt to changing needs
Benefits
- Medical Plan
- Retirement Plan
- Flexible Work Hours
- On-Site Fitness Facilities
- Banking Facilities
- Cafeteria
- Prescription Drug Plan
- Dental Plan
- Vision Plan
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Contributory Pension Plan
- Life Insurance
- Disability Benefits
- Vacation
- Holidays
- Parental Leave
- Legal Insurance
- Identity Theft Protection
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts
- Wellness Programs
- Educational Assistance
- Relocation Assistance
- Employee Discounts
Company overview
Ora is the world's leading full-service ophthalmic drug and device development firm, operating as a specialized contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on ophthalmology. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the company has over 45 years of experience in advancing eye care innovations globally. Ora provides comprehensive research and development services spanning preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, and product development for both pharmaceutical and medical device companies. With operations across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Asia, the company has helped clients achieve more than 85 product approvals to date. Ora's expertise covers a wide range of ophthalmic conditions including allergy, dry eye, retina diseases, glaucoma, and anti-infective therapies. The company employs over 500 ophthalmology specialists who utilize proprietary clinical models, integrated data solutions, and global regulatory strategies to accelerate product development from concept to market. Ora serves a diverse client base ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical and device companies, positioning itself as the trusted partner for ophthalmic innovation worldwide.