Principal Scientist, Imaging Biomarker Research

The Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, is seeking applicants for a Scientist III level position with particular interest in research aimed at developing novel molecular imaging tracers for neuroscience applications. These imaging radiotracers will facilitate the diagnosis of brain diseases based on their molecular pathology and hence the development of therapeutics. The successful candidate will design and pursue research approaches aimed at identifying highly potent and selective ligands for pathological proteins, perform and supervise medicinal chemistry research, supervise the day-to-day activities of staff, interact with external research groups, interpret, summarize and present results, and monitor the program's budget. She or he will conduct literature reviews and assist in writing publications as well as grant applications. We seek applicants with a track record of outstanding research accomplishments and an ability to work in a highly collegial and collaborative academic environment.

• This position may require some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non-campus work location.

• Terminal, 24 month appointment

• This position has the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding.

Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration:

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  Broad knowledge base in organic chemistry, including:

  
  
  
  

  • Organic synthesis of heterocyclic compounds,

  • Synthesis of small analogue libraries,

  • Lead characterization and optimization experience

  • Scale up of lead compounds to produce multi-gram quantities

  
  
  
  

• Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information

• Identifies, writes, or assists in developing grant opportunities, grant applications, and proposals to secure research funding

• May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit and staff and resolve routine personnel issues

• Identifies research problems and develops highly complex research methodologies and procedures. Publishes and presents results to help advance research

• Serves as an institutional subject matter expert and liaison with key internal and external stakeholders providing expert level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area

• Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures

• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials and, disseminates information to appropriate entities

• Collects and analyzes highly complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, ADRC WRAP Biospecimen Lab

Fueled by innovation yet grounded in kindness, the Department of Medicine empowers leaders to transform medicine and improve lives everywhere. We are committed to professional fulfillment and health equity. We strive to ensure that everyone in our department understands the importance of social impact and belonging-and is empowered to champion it in all they do. Join us and be a part of supporting our nationally recognized faculty, innovative medical education programs and exceptional clinical care as we work towards our vision of healthy people and healthy communities!

The starting salary for the position is $90,000 annually; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage and the SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026.

• Minimum of 5 years relevant postdoctoral experience.

• Minimum of 3 years of scientific project and laboratory management experience

• Minimum of 3 years of medicinal chemistry experience

• Experience with relevant laboratory analytical techniques such as 1H/13C-NMR, HPLC, GC, TLC, MS, etc.

• Experience participating in multi-disciplinary drug discovery projects involving sample testing, managing internal and external resources, interpreting, summarizing and communicating results to stakeholders.

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Radiochemistry, or closely related discipline, is required.

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To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials.

Important: The application has only one attachment field. Upload all required documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area.

Upload required documents:
* Cover letter
* Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience align with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected

Rachael Wilson, rewilson3@wisc.edu

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The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

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