"Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry"

Position Overview

The Department of Medicinal Chemistry located within the School of Pharmacy at the University of Kansas (KU) seeks exceptional candidates for a tenure-track faculty position at the Assistant Professor level to commence by August 2026.

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate excellence in research, teaching and service and will contribute to the Department's expertise by having a background and research interests in Medicinal Chemistry and whose research aligns with the NIH mission. We are particularly interested in individuals who will develop chemical tools to probe the pathophysiology of disease processes and who will use this knowledge as a foundation for therapeutic development. However, the search is not limited to this area. Applicants with strong backgrounds and future plans in synthetic organic chemistry, synthetic medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, and biocatalysis are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in a relevant field. Applicants should demonstrate the potential to establish an independent, sustainable and externally funded research program, as evidenced by research products including preprints and publications, and a statement outlining research successes and future goals. As excellence in education and mentoring is a priority for our academic scientists, applicants should convey approaches and interests in these areas.

The candidate should have a strong record of basic research interfacing chemistry and/or biology and a commitment to graduate and undergraduate education in the field. The department is especially interested in candidates who have a developed research plan for externally sponsored research in a field that complements current research activities at the University (https://medchem.ku.edu/). The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the U.S. by the effective date of the appointment.

KU's excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our faculty, staff, students, and colleagues from across our nation and the globe. At KU, we invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate and support each other's success. We foster a culture of care where each person is seen, heard and valued. When people feel a true sense of belonging, we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things.

The University of Kansas is a Carnegie doctoral/research-extensive R-1 university and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). KU is a major educational and research institution located in Lawrence, a vibrant, thriving, and progressive community of more than 90,000 close to Kansas City and the KU Medical Center. The Department of Medicinal Chemistry faculty engage in comprehensive and diverse research efforts that enable innovative and cross-disciplinary approaches.

Job Description

40% RESEARCH
Initiate, organize and maintain a vigorous and productive program of research in medicinal chemistry (broadly defined) that includes:

1. Obtaining external research funding from federal agencies (e.g. NIH, NSF, etc.)
2. Publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and
3. Presenting findings at professional conferences.

40% TEACHING/ADVISING

1. Teach and mentor pharmacy students and graduate students in formal medicinal chemistry or chemical biology courses,
2. Participate in the academic advising of pharmacy students and graduate students, and
3. Mentor students in research, including serving as a dissertation/thesis director and professional mentor for students.

20% SERVICE

1. Serve on committees at the Departmental, School, and/or University levels as the opportunities arise,
2. Participate in professional service activities, and
3. Participate collegially in departmental and school meetings.

Collegiality:
All faculty members are expected to act in a manner that promotes collegial relationships and show respect toward students, staff, and colleagues.

Faculty Code:
Faculty members are expected to meet satisfactory standards of performance in all three areas of responsibility and to carry out those responsibilities in accordance with the Faculty Code of Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct.

Required Qualifications

1. Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or Medicinal Chemistry or related field. Closely related research-based degree such as D.Sc., are also acceptable.
2. Publications in peer-reviewed journals with innovative research objectives that demonstrate potential for excellence in research
3. Demonstrated potential for effective teaching in medicinal chemistry/chemical biology applying effective inclusive teaching practices, at the graduate, undergraduate and/or professional levels.
4. Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, administrators, students, and other research personnel as demonstrated by application materials and interview.

Contact Information to Applicants

Prof. Shyam Sathyamoorthi
Search Committee Chair
ssathyam@ku.edu

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete online application will include the following 5 items: (1) cover letter describing your doctoral and postdoctoral experiences; (2) curriculum vitae including a record of accomplishments, including publications, award, fellowships and external research funding; (3) the names and contact information for at least three professional references (reference letters will be collected from interview finalists at a later time); (4) a description of current and future research interests and plans. Full consideration will be given to those that limit length to less than four pages; and (5) a statement of educational and mentoring plans that includes your experience, approach, or methodologies to create and implement teaching practices, pedagogical techniques, and course materials for the classroom environment.

First review of applications will begin March 10, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Priority will be given to applications received by the initial review date.

Position inquiries can be directed to Prof. Shyam Sathyamoorthi (ssathyam@ku.edu).

Advertised Salary Range
commensurate with experience

Application Review Begins
10-Mar-2026

Anticipated Start Date
18-Aug-2026

Primary Campus
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

FTE
1.00

Reg/Temp
Regular

Employee Class
F-Faculty