Scientist II, Chemistry (non PhD)

Position Summary:

The Scientist II, Chemistry, will be part of a new initiative aimed at expanding Deciphera’s compound library of proprietary kinase inhibitors developed using the company’s switch control platform technology. The Scientist II, Chemistry will apply modern organic synthetic methodologies, parallel synthesis, and high throughput purification techniques to generate screening and focused chemical libraries of switch control kinase inhibitors to support Deciphera’s new discovery projects.  The successful candidate will hold an MS or a BS degree in Organic Chemistry with a minimum of 2-4 years industry experience, respectively. 

This position will report to the Senior Scientist II, Chemistry lead on the chemical diversity initiative.  The position is based in Lawrence, KS, in Deciphera’s state-of-the-art research facility near the University of Kansas campus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the design, staging, and reproducible synthesis of high-quality small molecule kinase inhibitor libraries
• Operate, maintain, and supply laboratory equipment related to parallel and automated synthesis
• Work effectively in a team environment, communicating and planning research with other chemists working on their respective project
• Prepare written reports, experimentals for patents, and other reports as required
• Values other people and promotes the welfare of the organization and colleagues

Required Qualifications:

• M.S. or B.S.  in organic chemistry with 2+ or 4+ years of industrial experience.in synthetic organic chemistry, respectively
• Must possess a good working knowledge of organic synthesis and/or organometallic catalysis techniques
• Good knowledge and experience with a wide range of techniques used in organic synthesis, purification, and spectroscopic characterization of novel compounds (NMR, LC-MS, HPLC, etc.)
• Experience with reaction optimization in high-throughput experimentation (HTE), parallel synthesis, automated synthesis, design of experiments (DOE), and/or flow chemistry is desirable, but not required
• Capable of setting up and analyzing multiple reactions, and working independently in an organic chemistry lab setting
• Ability to manage critical laboratory supplies/reagents and coordinate experiment timings with others is a must
• Self-aware; will seek input from others on ideas and problem-solving; uses others as a resource
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated proficiency using MS Office and ChemDraw applications is required