University of Florida - Gainesville, FL
posted 3 months ago
The Center for Natural Products, Drug Discovery and Development (CNPD3) at the University of Florida is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to support research activities in the Molecular Diversity and Screening Core. This position plays a crucial role in facilitating drug discovery by developing Natural Product Libraries from marine and terrestrial samples and preparing them for screening. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining an organized laboratory space, performing routine equipment maintenance, and ordering necessary supplies for research and screening activities. Applicants should be adaptable to the evolving needs of the lab and its research focus. The Research Assistant will develop high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS) methods for compound dereplication and will be involved in the purification of compounds through HPLC. The role requires independent operation of NMR and LCMS instruments, as well as basic data analysis. The candidate will also carry out extraction and initial fractionation of natural product samples to enhance existing natural product fraction libraries. Additionally, the assistant will prepare compound and natural product stocks for library dispensing and maintain inventories for all CNPD3 libraries. Daily operations of the Center will also be part of the responsibilities, including ordering supplies, maintaining lab cleanliness, and keeping records of equipment maintenance. The University of Florida College of Pharmacy values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members are respected and recognized for their contributions. The college has received the Insight into Diversity Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award three times, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.