Applications are invited for appointment as Postdoctoral Researcher in Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry (Job Reference No.: RV2025001) in the Laboratory for Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology Limited (the Laboratory), located at the Hong Kong Science Park (HKSP), to commence as soon as possible, on a 1-year contract basis, with the possibility of renewal. Established as a research unit in HKSP, the Laboratory integrates chemical science and biomedical science for the development of new molecular medicines, diagnostic tools for the treatment of human diseases with a focus on cancer.

The appointee will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance research on metal complexes imaging and therapy. The project will be led by Prof. Ramon Vilar https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/r.vilar in collaboration with local PIs in Hong Kong. 

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel stimuli-responsive metal complexes as ‘smart’ anticancer agents. This will include metal complexes that can be activated by light irradiation and/or specific cellular environment (e.g. hypoxic conditions or enzyme activity). There is scope to bioconjugate the developed compounds to cancer-targeting motifs to increase their therapeutic selectivity. Working within a dynamic international collaboration, the appointee will gain valuable experience in bridging fundamental molecular research with translational studies toward potential clinical applications.

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Requirements

Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in synthetic chemistry, ideally focused with some experience in chemical biology. They should have demonstrated expertise in the design, synthesis, and characterization of new compounds utilizing synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry (involving transition metals). Experience with a range of spectroscopic techniques (e.g. NMR, mass spectrometry) and characterization methods (e.g. HPLC, LC–MS) is essentiasl – key points are listed below:

• A PhD degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry

• Experience and knowledge of synthetic inorganic and organic chemistry

• Experience and knowledge of chemical biology and/or medicinal chemistry

• Experience and knowledge of metal coordination chemistry and chelator design

• A track record of publications appropriate to their career path

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to deal with a wide range of people

Applicants should be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.

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Duties

We are looking for someone with a range of synthetic chemistry (inorganic and organic) experience and experience/knowledge of chemical biology and/or medicinal chemistry.  This role will encompass varied responsibilities, including work on a wide range of collaborative projects.  You will develop novel stimuli-responsive metal complexes as ‘smart’ anticancer agents. This will include metal complexes that can be activated by light irradiation and/or a specific cellular environment (e.g. hypoxic conditions or enzyme activity). There is scope to bioconjugate the developed compounds to cancer-targeting motifs to increase their therapeutic selectivity. This work will involve collaborations with research groups across Imperial College, the University of Hong Kong and/or City University of Hong Kong and drive the development and translation of metal-based anticancer agents.

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits.

Applicants should send their cover letter, detailed up-to-date CV, 2 reference letters and job reference number to the email account at HR@hksccb.hk. Reviewing of applications will be continued until the closing date (23 December 2025), or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

The personal data provided in your application process will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes. The personal data may be transferred and disclosed to, and used by HKU Innovation Holdings Limited and The University of Hong Kong for the above purposes.