Head of Medicinal Plant Metabolomics

Job Summary

The Blavatnik Center for Drug Discovery at Tel Aviv University is launching a unique division dedicated to discovering new plant-based drugs. The Head of the Medicinal Plant Metabolomics unit will provide strategic leadership and technical oversight for the metabolomics center. This role will be responsible for developing cutting-edge mass spectrometry (MS) and analytical workflows to decode complex plant chemical profiles. The successful candidate will lead a team of scientists to support botanical drug discovery research.

II. Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a long-term roadmap to build world-class metabolomics capabilities for drug discovery, ensuring the facility remains at the forefront of the field.
• Facility Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, including instrument maintenance (LC-MS, GC-MS), budget management, and resource allocation.
• Scientific Collaboration: Partner with multidisciplinary teams to integrate metabolomics data into broader systems biology frameworks.
• Method Development: Spearhead the creation of novel untargeted and targeted metabolic profiling methods to address specific research challenges.
• Data Analysis & Bioinformatics: Implement reproducible, version-controlled pipelines for data processing, statistical modeling, and biological interpretation.
• Team Development: Recruit, mentor, and manage a team of specialists, providing training in sample preparation and advanced analytical techniques.
• Reporting & Publication: Lead the preparation of scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and internal technical reports.
• III. Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Metabolomics, or a related field. • Experience:

o Minimum 5–8 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in biological mass spectrometry.

o Proven track record of leading a core facility or a high-performing research team. • Technical Expertise:

o Deep knowledge of high-resolution mass spectrometry and chromatography systems.

o Proficiency in bioinformatics tools • Soft Skills:

o Highly motivated & hard worker

o Enthusiastic towards translational science

o Capable in translating complex data into actionable biological insights o Strong project management

o Excellent verbal/written communication 

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references to leahklapper@tauex.tau.ac.il