Associate Scientist – Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry

Position Overview

The Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry at CIMA University of Navarra is seeking an Associate Scientist to lead and support projects focused on the identification, design, and optimization of small-molecule probes, single-domain antibodies, and advanced biologics to validate novel therapeutic targets in vitro and in vivo. You will work in a multidisciplinary, translational setting, contributing technical expertise and scientific leadership to drive discovery from concept through preclinical stages.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and optimize therapeutic biologics (including single-domain antibodies (sdAb) and advanced formats) and small molecules with focus on developability, pharmacological tool properties, safety, and efficacy.
• Oversee mammalian and prokayotic protein expression systems, protein purification, and manufacturability testing.
• Perform biochemical and biophysical characterizations using techniques such as ELISA, SPR, BLI, FPLC.
• Develop and refine purification workflows: affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion chromatography to ensure high-quality protein production.
• Introduce new experimental methods or computational tools to enhance target validation and lead optimization.
• Interpret experimental results, anticipate technical challenges, and contribute to project-level decisions.
• Prepare and present scientific data internally and externally; author manuscripts, reports, and contribute to intellectual property.
• Mentor junior scientists, fostering innovation, collaboration, and high performance.
• Stay up to date with advances in the field (structural biology, protein engineering, small molecule chemistry, etc.).
• Contribute to the preparation of competitive research grants and funding proposals, in collaboration with the Principal Investigator and institutional partners.

Why Join the Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry at CIMA University of Navarra

CIMA University of Navarra is one of Europe’s leading translational biomedical research centers, uniquely integrated with the Clínica Universidad de Navarra, enabling a seamless path from scientific discovery to clinical application.

The Medicinal Chemistry Research Group focuses on finding small molecules and biological tools to validate new therapeutic targets in vitro and in vivo, ensuring both efficacy and safety, while working in a multidisciplinary environment with strong translational components.

By joining us, you will:

• Be part of a mission-driven institution where your work contributes directly to addressing unmet clinical needs.
• Work in a collaborative team of basic scientists, clinicians, engineers, and computational experts.
• Have the chance to lead projects that move from target validation to lead optimization to preclinical candidate stages.
• Develop both biologics and small molecule tools, broadening your skillset.

Contribute to high-impact science and see your work have real potential to benefit patients