At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in medicinal chemistry and AI-driven drug discovery.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution at Imperial's White City Campus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, state-of-the-art facilities, and tailored career development.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse, inclusive culture with strong support for personal wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative environment focused on science for humanity.
- Qualifications: Proven research leadership and experience in teaching at various academic levels.
The predicted salary is between 82969 - 94829 £ per year.
The Department of Chemistry invites applications for up to two senior academic appointments (Associate Professor/Professor) to commence within the next 6–18 months. We are particularly interested in outstanding candidates whose research and teaching align with:
- medicinal chemistry and therapeutic discovery science; and/or
- AI‑driven approaches to drug discovery and chemical biology.
These appointments form part of a major strategic expansion at Imperial’s White City Campus, a rapidly developing ecosystem for interdisciplinary molecular science, technology innovation, and translation. Successful appointees will join a uniquely collaborative environment anchored by outstanding high‑throughput discovery facilities at the Imperial/LMS Drug Discovery Hub, the Institute of Chemical Biology, the Institute for Digital Molecular Design and Fabrication (DigiFAB) and the UKRI‑funded AI for Chemistry Hub. Together, these initiatives provide exceptional opportunities for high‑throughput chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, data‑rich discovery science, and AI/ML‑enabled therapeutic research.
The successful candidate will develop and lead an internationally competitive research programme within the Department of Chemistry in one or more of the following fields:
- medicinal chemistry,
- novel molecular therapeutic modalities,
- chemical biology,
- AI‑enabled therapeutic discovery.
What we are looking for:
- Evidence of developing and leading a research programme in one or more of the following fields: medicinal chemistry, novel molecular therapeutic modalities, chemical biology, or AI‑enabled therapeutic discovery.
- Demonstrated experience supervising, training, and mentoring research staff and students to achieve high standards of scientific excellence.
- Proven ability to secure research funding and grants.
- Experience managing research projects, including planning, coordination, and delivery of research objectives.
- A strong publication record of high‑quality research in peer‑reviewed journals.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate across disciplines and contribute to faculty‑level or institutional initiatives.
- Demonstrated experience teaching and examining at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels through a range of formats such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, coursework, and individual supervision.
- Experience supervising PhD candidates to successful progress and completion.
- Evidence of contributing to curriculum design or development at undergraduate or postgraduate level.
- Experience leading or contributing to the development of teaching methods and assessment practices.
What we can offer you:
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
- Continue developing your research in the unique White City Campus ecosystem to build ambitious, collaborative programmes that bridge fundamental molecular discovery with translation research and impact.
- State‑of‑the‑art facilities and infrastructure to develop your research.
- A vibrant, supportive and collaborative academic environment.
- An environment that encourages academic leadership in teaching, including opportunities to mentor colleagues and contribute to a strong culture of teaching excellence.
- Opportunities to supervise PhD candidates within a vibrant and internationally recognised research community.
- Support for developing and implementing innovative teaching methods and assessment approaches.
- Grow in your career with tailored training programmes for academic staff including dedicated support with navigating your career and managing research as well as a transparent promotion process.
- Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources designed to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Salary:
- Associate Professor - Minimum starting salary of £82,969 per annum
- Professor - Minimum starting salary of £94,829 per annum
Closing date: 11 May 2026, 23:59 hours (Midnight BST)
Interview dates: 9th and 10th July 2026
Further Information:
The Department of Chemistry ranked eleven globally in the 2025 QS World University subject rankings, and third in the UK. We are active both in pushing the frontiers of core chemical understanding and in applying cutting‑edge knowledge to diverse areas of modern molecular science. The Department is proud to hold an Athena Swan Gold Award (renewed for the third consecutive time in 2025) which recognises the good practices in place for supporting women at all stages, including undergraduate, postgraduate, postdoctoral and early‑career academic through to professional level. This is a full‑time post (35 hours per week).
If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Professor Ramon Vilar, Head of the Department of Chemistry, Email: r.vilar@imperial.ac.uk
Queries relating to the application process should be directed to: Mrs Maria Monteiro, Senior Appointments Manager, Email: m.monteiro@imperial.ac.uk
Associate Professor/Professor in Chemistry employer: Imperial College London
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative academic environment at the cutting-edge White City Campus. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to supporting employee growth through tailored training programmes and a transparent promotion process, we empower our staff to excel in their research and teaching careers. Join us to be part of a diverse community dedicated to using science for humanity, while enjoying a sector-leading salary and a strong culture of inclusivity and wellbeing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor/Professor in Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars in your field. It's a great way to meet potential collaborators and get your name out there. Plus, you never know who might be looking for someone with your expertise!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research! Create a personal website or an online portfolio showcasing your publications, projects, and teaching experiences. This gives hiring committees a clear view of what you bring to the table and makes you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to your field. Think about how your experience aligns with the role at Imperial and be ready to discuss your vision for research and teaching.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor/Professor in Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your research and teaching experience aligns with the specific fields mentioned in the job description, like medicinal chemistry or AI-driven drug discovery. We want to see how you fit into our unique collaborative environment!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t hold back on sharing your successes! Include evidence of your research funding, publication record, and any mentoring or teaching experiences. This is your chance to shine and show us what you can bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your application logically. We appreciate a well-organised submission that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and potential.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your research programme in detail, especially how it aligns with medicinal chemistry and AI-driven drug discovery. Be prepared to explain your methodologies, findings, and future directions clearly and confidently.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Experience
Highlight your experience in teaching at various levels. Prepare examples of innovative teaching methods you've implemented and how you've contributed to curriculum design. This will demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence and mentorship.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Be ready to discuss your past collaborations across disciplines. Share specific examples of how you've worked with others to achieve research goals, as this role values a collaborative environment highly.
✨Prepare for Funding Discussions
Since securing research funding is crucial, come equipped with examples of grants you've successfully obtained. Discuss your strategies for funding applications and how you plan to continue this in your new role.
