Assistant Professor
Location: On-Site, Aurora, CO

Job Description:

Are you a visionary medicinal chemist eager to push the boundaries of drug discovery and development? Do you thrive in collaborative environments where innovation meets impact? The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus invites YOU to join us as a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

This isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to shape the future of medicine.


Why This Role Matters

Imagine leading groundbreaking research that drives therapeutic advancements, tackling real-world challenges with cutting-edge tools like computational modeling, synthetic organic chemistry, and chemical biology. Imagine doing it all on a campus recognized for its pioneering contributions to pharmaceutical research, alongside teams that share your passion for discovery.

As part of our community, you’ll lead transformative research, teach and inspire tomorrow’s scientific leaders, and collaborate across disciplines to accelerate drug development.


What You'll Do

  • Innovate & Lead Research: Establish and sustain an externally funded research program in medicinal chemistry focused on clinical translation.
  • Collaborate Boldly: Work with interdisciplinary teams across campus to tackle high-impact research challenges.
  • Educate & Inspire: Develop engaging courses for graduate and PharmD students, sharing your expertise and passion for medicinal chemistry.
  • Mentor Future Innovators: Guide and nurture graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and professional researchers.
  • Contribute Meaningfully: Engage in service activities that elevate the department and profession.

Why You Should Join Us

Our department is consistently ranked among the top institutions for NIH funding, with cutting-edge research cores dedicated to mass spectrometry, high-throughput screening, and medicinal chemistry. You'll have access to unmatched resources to fuel your research journey.

We are home to innovative research centers, including the Center for Drug Discovery, Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, and Colorado Center for Nanomedicine and Nanosafety. Here, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.


What We’re Looking For

  • Research Powerhouse: A Ph.D., Pharm.D., or equivalent in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related field with a proven track record in computational or AI-driven drug discovery.
  • Disease Focus: Strong interest in addressing neurodegeneration or age-related disorders preferred (but not required).
  • Team Player: Proven ability to lead and collaborate on interdisciplinary research teams.
  • Grant Magnet: Commitment to securing research funding from federal agencies, foundations, or industry partners.
  • Educational Innovator: Passion for teaching and mentoring future scientific leaders.

Perks That Go Beyond Paychecks

  • Competitive Salary: $122,570 - $133,223
  • Generous Benefits Package:
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance options
    • Retirement contributions (10% of your gross pay!)
    • 22 vacation days and 15 sick days per year
    • Tuition benefits across CU campuses
    • ECO Pass for RTD bus and light rail service

How to Apply:

Submit the following materials at www.cu.edu/cu-careers:

  • A compelling cover letter outlining your research and teaching vision
  • Your detailed CV
  • A statement of research accomplishments and future goals
  • Teaching philosophy statement (limit 1 page)
  • Three professional recommendation letters

Deadline for best consideration: October 15, 2024. Screening starts immediately, and applications remain open until the position is filled.

If you have questions, reach out to Shelly Lange at shelly.lange@cuanschutz.edu.


Join Us & Shape the Future of Drug Discovery

Be part of a team where science meets purpose, and where your work has the power to change lives. Together, let’s create breakthroughs that matter.


Key Skills:

  • Assistant Professor