"Postdoctoral Research Fellow"

Position Summary

One postdoctoral position focused on the synthesis of mycobacterial glycolipids is available starting November 1, 2025, in the laboratory of Dr. Ben Swarts of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Central Michigan University. The position is renewable, contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding, for a maximum term of three years. We are looking for an enthusiastic chemist to work on the synthesis, characterization, and chemical biology of structurally complex, virulence-associated glycolipids from the cell envelope of mycobacterial pathogens, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We are seeking talented individuals with demonstrated experience in the chemical synthesis of complex carbohydrates, lipids, and conjugates thereof. Candidates should have strong written and oral communication skills with a track record of publication and presentation of research results.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or Biochemistry (received within the last six years). ABD candidates will be considered, provided the degree is conferred by the start date of the appointment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Record of publication and presentation of research results.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the synthesis of carbohydrates and/or lipids.

Message to Applicants

Central Michigan University is dedicated to fostering an environment that is reflective of the communities we serve. We are especially interested in highly qualified candidates who will advance and promote CMUs mission, vision, and leadership standards. You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position. Cover letters should be addressed directly to Dr. Ben Swarts at ben.swarts@cmich.edu. It is also recommended that applicants provide a concise personal statement addressing their research interests, suitability for the position, and career objectives.

About the Department

The CMU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers degrees at the BS and MS level in chemistry and biochemistry. Interdisciplinary PhD degrees are offered with other CMU departments. For more information, please visit our department website.

About CMU

Central Michigan University has a more than 125-year legacy of preparing students to become leaders and changemakers in their communities and in their personal and professional lives. We serve nearly 15,500 students on our Mount Pleasant campus, in satellite locations around the state and throughout the country, and through flexible online programs. Many of our approximately 300 undergraduate, masters, specialist and doctoral programs in the arts, media, business, education, human services, health professions, liberal arts, social sciences, medicine, science and engineering are nationally ranked for excellence. CMU leads the nation in leadership development programming through our Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute, and we are proud to be among only 5% of U.S. universities in the top two Carnegie research classifications. Our faculty work with graduate and undergraduate students in areas such as Great Lakes research, medical innovation, engineering technology and more. Central is home to 17 mens and womens Division 1 sports including football, basketball, gymnastics, baseball, wrestling and more. Our student-athletes achieve great success in competition and in the classroom, capturing Mid-American Conference championships and maintaining an average cumulative GPA of 3.17. CMU is located in Mount Pleasant, a community that blends the best of small-town living with big-city amenities. Its part of the culturally varied and vibrant Great Lakes Bay Region that also includes Saginaw, Bay City, Midland and the states largest Native American community, centered on the Saginaw Chippewa Isabella Reservation in Mount Pleasant. Area residents enjoy the mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, shopping and dining options, and family attractions. Other major Michigan destinations and attractions - Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Traverse City, wineries, beaches, golf and ski resorts, and many more - are within easy reach of the citys central location in Michigans Lower Peninsula. CMU employees enjoy access to a nationally recognized wellness program along with health care and benefits that exceed regional, state and national norms.