"Synthetic Carbohydrate and/or Lipid Chemistry Research Associate"

Position Details

Posting Number: F-0996

College/Unit: College of Science and Engineering

Home Department: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Employee Group: Fixed-Term Faculty - 12 month

Employment Status: Full-Time

Position Type: 12 month

Position Classification: Fixed-Term Faculty

Position Begin Date: 11/24/2025

Position End Date:

Position Summary

A Research Associate position focused on the synthesis and chemical biology of mycobacterial glycolipids is available starting November 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 up to three years. We are looking for an enthusiastic scientist with experience in complex interdisciplinary research projects in the areas of synthetic chemistry and chemical biology, and additional experience in microbiology is preferred. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in the chemical synthesis, characterization, and biological applications of complex carbohydrates, lipids, and conjugates thereof.

The Research Associate will be directly responsible for independently designing and executing interdisciplinary research projects, contributing to grant proposals that support the Principal Investigator in securing external funding, as well as leading the dissemination of research findings through publication in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, the Research Associate will oversee key aspects of laboratory management, including supervision of graduate researchers, management of laboratory resources, and enforcement of safety protocols to ensure regulatory compliance.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry or biochemistry.
• 5 years of job-related, post-PhD professional experience.
• Strong experience in the chemical synthesis, characterization, and biological applications of complex carbohydrates, lipids, and conjugates thereof.
• Experience in interdisciplinary areas of synthetic chemistry and chemical biology.
• Demonstrated expertise in research laboratory management.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise researchers or students at graduate levels.
• Experience in designing independent research projects and preparing research proposals.
• Proven track record of publishing high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, demonstrated through publications and presentations.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background knowledge and/or research experience in microbiology.
• Demonstrated success in contributing to the preparation of research proposals that have led to funded grants.

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 CMU’s mission, vision, and leadership standards.

You must submit an online application in order to be considered as an applicant for this position.

Cover letters can be addressed to Dr. Ben Swarts, and any questions can be addressed to 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.

Posting Begins: 11/04/2025

Posting Ends:

Open Until Filled: Yes