The James Tarpo Jr. and Margaret Tarpo Department of Chemistry at Purdue University invites applications for multiple tenure-track positions at the rank of Assistant Professor in the field of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery. We seek outstanding scientists to establish a research program that complements and enhances our department's existing strengths. The department is focused on leveraging chemical biology and drug discovery to advance our understanding of biological processes and to develop novel therapeutic strategies.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to Purdue’s strategic goal of becoming a transnational hub for chemical innovation, particularly in the areas of chemical biology and drug discovery. This includes, but is not limited to, the following areas of research:

• RNA Chemical Biology and RNA as drug target: Developing methodologies and probes to shed light on non-canonical RNA function and/or drugging RNA or RNA/protein complexes.
• Gut-Brain axis: Developing tools to illuminate the link between constituents of the gut, including microbes and metabolites, and the brain.
• Protein/Antibody Design and Engineering: Developing novel proteins or antibodies to target specific biological processes. 
• Functional Genomics: Understanding pharmacology and drug mechanisms through genomic analysis.
• Structure-Based Drug Design: Using structural biology to guide the development of new therapeutics.
• Proteomics and Chemoproteomics: Applying proteomics techniques to identify drug targets and understand drug mechanisms.
• Machine Learning and AI: Implementing AI and machine learning to enhance target identification and the drug discovery process. Candidates with a computational background are encouraged to apply, particularly those who integrate experimental components to validate their computational models. 

Qualifications:

Candidates must have a PhD in chemistry or a related field. Postdoctoral experience preferred.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead an independent, externally funded research program in chemical biology and drug discovery.
• Collaborate with departmental and university-wide initiatives focused on drug discovery and chemical biology.
• Supervise and mentor graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Chemistry.
• Contribute to the academic and research community at Purdue University through service, outreach, and leadership.

Application Procedure:

Applicants should submit an application electronically at https://careers.purdue.edu/job/Assistant-Professor-of-Chemical-Biology-and-Drug-Discovery/33679-en_US/ that includes:

• A cover letter
• A complete curriculum vitae
• A teaching plan
• A research plan

Additionally, applicants should arrange for three letters of reference to be e-mailed to the Search Chair at biochemsearch@purdue.edu, specifically indicating the position for which the applicant is applying. Applications will be held in strict confidence and will be reviewed beginning October 17, 2024. Applications will remain in consideration until the position is filled. A background check will be required for employment in this position.

The Department and College: With 50 full-time faculty, 450 PhD students, and over 400 outstanding undergraduates, Purdue’s highly ranked chemistry department is one of the largest and most diverse in the country. The wide-ranging expertise of the faculty enables fast and effective responses to interdisciplinary research opportunities, positioning it as a key partner in many university-wide centers, institutes, and initiatives.

The Tarpo Department of Chemistry is part of the College of Science, which comprises the physical, computing, and life sciences at Purdue. It is the second-largest college at Purdue with over 350 faculty and more than 6,000 students. With multiple commitments of significant investment and strong alignment with Purdue leadership, the College is committed to supporting existing strengths and enhancing the scope and impact of the Department of Chemistry. Purdue itself is one of the nation’s leading land-grant universities, with an enrollment of over 41,000 students primarily focused on STEM subjects.

Purdue University, the College of Science, and the Department of Chemistry are committed to free and open inquiry in all matters. Purdue University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.