Research Scientist and Managing Director - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

Research Scientist and Managing Director - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

Alma Therapeutics is a public- private partnership
between the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and Deerfield
Management in NY and its mission is to translate break-through science
performed at UIUC into new therapeutics for a wide range of medical needs.

Alma Therapeutics leverages resources and
infrastructure across UIUC campus, including the first-of-its-kind Molecule
Maker Lab (MML) that is pioneering automated modular small-molecule synthesis
for drug discovery located at Beckman Institute and world class, team-science
based, Interdisciplinary Research Institute, the Carl R. Woese Institute for
Genomic Biology (IGB), where Alma Therapeutics is housed.

The mission of the IGB is to
advance life science research at the University, meaningfully engage with the
public to understand the impact of genomic research, and to stimulate
bio-economic development in the state of Illinois. We do so by tackling grand
challenges in fundamental and applied research with genomics and
multi-disciplinary team science and large thematic research areas that spans
health and wellness, agriculture and energy, technology and society.

We are looking for a dynamic individual with scientific expertise in drug discovery to lead the partnership with
Alma therapeutics and UIUC. This is a unique opportunity to develop a career in
managing innovative collaborations and providing scientific guidance on
projects as necessary. This position and partnership sit at the forefront of
advancing drug discovery at Illinois.

Job Summary
The Research Scientist and Managing Director position aims to bring together scientific expertise in medicinal chemistry to formulate novel drug design and development and to foster team collaborations towards drug discovery.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Research Scientist activities
  * Collaborates with the faculty, post-docs, and students as an embedded research partner to conceptualize scientific projects related to drug discovery and development.
  * Conducts experiments to identify and evaluate the efficacy of compounds to advance the translational drug development pipeline.
  * Oversees project performance of trainees and junior staff, and advises on best practices in developing protocols, conducting experiments, analyzing data and presenting results.
  * Creates scientific presentations and presents results in scientific meetings and conferences, in research publications, and to partners in Alma therapeutics.
  * Identifies opportunities to grow the research portfolio and advance the pursuit of collaborative drug discovery.
• Managing Director activities
  * Contributes to strategic planning and implementation of goals of the partnership with Alma Therapeutics.
  * Serve as a campus liaison for Alma Therapeutics and work with Director Martin Burke.
  * Conceptualizes and conducts workshops to invite faculty and staff to apply for proposals.
  * Organizes and prepares materials on the Alma Therapeutics partnership to present to leadership at Illinois and Deerfield.
  * Fosters collaborations within the university and external entities to promote drug discovery and development at Illinois.
  * Represents the partnership and success stories in regional and national conferences.
  * Cultivates relationships across academia, industry, and government in order to develop new partnerships.
  * Liaises with the Office of Technology Management on intellectual property developed by the projects funded by Alma Therapeutics partnership.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in Chemistry with specialization in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, and experience in early-stage drug discovery and development.
Preferred Qualifications
* Two or more years of experience working in research setting, including experience working in academia or industry beyond graduate education.
* Documented record of excellent performance in recent professional appointments, evidenced by successful project execution, leadership responsibilities, and sustained contributions to research programs.
* Strong track record of scientific publications and meaningful participation in successful grant writing, supported by three favorable letters of recommendation.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Hands-on experience in early-stage discovery in drug design and development.
• Demonstrated ability to work with various stakeholder teams and coordinate projects across multiple teams and departments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to motivate others and serve as a champion for initiatives.
• Problem-solving skills, and ability to work with various groups of individuals with varying work styles, experiences and abilities.
• Must be able to communicate effectively to formulate presentations, write reports, and conduct workshops to encourage collaborative proposals

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 4/1/2026. The budgeted salary range is $75,000 to $85,000. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, and budget constraints. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on March 9, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jana Lenz at [email protected] . For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next . Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits . This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal , or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [email protected] .

Requisition ID : 1035072

Job Category : Research

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