Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Organic Synthesis at UCSB

Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Organic Synthesis at UCSB

Job Number: 96141

Location: Santa Barbara, US

Job Description

Position Overview
 The Zhang Lab at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position in organic synthesis, with a focus on transition metal catalysis, peptide synthesis using unnatural amino acids, glycan synthesis, and the study of their biological activities. The Zhang Lab is dedicated to developing innovative synthetic methodologies and applying them to solve critical challenges in glycoscience and drug discovery. Join our research team at the intersection of organic synthesis and life sciences!

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute the synthesis of complex glycans, peptides, and bioactive small molecules.
• Develop novel synthetic strategies for accessing biologically relevant carbohydrates and peptides with improved stability and therapeutic potential.
• Investigate the biological functions of synthesized glycans and peptides through collaborative efforts with glycobiologists.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at national/international conferences.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to collaborative projects within the lab and department.

Qualifications

• PhD. in Organic Chemistry (degree must be conferred by the start date).
• Expertise in transition metal catalysis, peptide synthesis, and/or carbohydrate chemistry (e.g., glycosylation, glycan assembly, oligosaccharide synthesis).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated record of scientific productivity.

Position Details

• Duration: 2 years (renewable annually, contingent on performance).
• Start Date: Immediate (applications accepted until position is filled).
• Salary:
  • Level 0 (0–11 months): $66,737/year
  • Level 1 (12–23 months): $69,209/year (includes increase to reflect experience/progression)
• Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, paid vacation/sick leave, and access to UCSB’s world-class facilities.

 The Liming Zhang Lab is at the forefront of synthetic organic chemistry, with a focus on developing new reactions and applying them to complex molecular targets. The lab fosters a collaborative, supportive environment and is part of UCSB’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, a top-ranked program with state-of-the-art instrumentation and proximity to interdisciplinary centers like the California NanoSystems Institute (CNSI) and Materials Research Laboratory (MRL).

Santa Barbara: Where Innovation Meets Paradise

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara offers a unique blend of academic excellence and coastal living. Imagine:

• Miles of sandy beaches and sunsets that inspire creativity.
• Hiking trails winding through redwood forests and wildflower meadows.
• World-class wineries, farmers’ markets, and culinary delights just minutes from campus.
• A vibrant arts and cultural scene, from live music to museums.
• A supportive scientific community with weekly seminars, workshops, and networking events.

Application Instructions
 Interested candidates should submit the following materials as a single PDF 

1. Cover letter (1 page) describing research interests, experience, and fit for the Zhang Lab’s research focus.
2. Curriculum vitae (including publications and conference presentations).
3. Research statement (1–2 pages) highlighting prior work and future goals in organic synthesis/glycobiology.
4. Contact information for 3 references (letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates).

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Join the Zhang Lab and help pioneer the next generation of synthetic tools for glycobiology and biomedical research!

Application Deadline: 2025-09-30