Senior Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemistry

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and comprehensive B

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development support

Collaborative research environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to drive drug discovery in Kimberley, Canada. You will design, synthesize, and optimize novel small molecule drug candidates within a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes SAR-driven lead optimization, close collaboration with biologists and pharmacologists, and clear scientific reporting. Strong synthetic chemistry, analytical methods (NMR, MS, HPLC), and familiarity with computational chemistry tools are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Medicinal Chemistry or Organic Chemistry.
• 5+ years post-PhD in medicinal chemistry/drug discovery.
• Strong synthesis and analytical skills (NMR, MS, HPLC).
• Experience in drug discovery projects and SAR.
• Familiarity with computational chemistry tools beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel small molecules with desirable pharmacological profiles.
• Iteratively optimize lead compounds through design, synthesis, and testing.
• Apply SAR to guide compound optimization.
• Collaborate with biologists and pharmacologists to evaluate efficacy and safety.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop efficient routes.
• Prepare scientific reports, contribute to patents, and present findings.

Skills

SAR knowledge

NMR/MS/HPLC

Computational chemistry

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Medicinal Chemistry or Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

Computational chemistry software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to contribute to their drug discovery efforts in Kimberley . This role is essential for designing, synthesizing, and optimizing novel small molecule drug candidates. You will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, applying cutting-edge synthetic techniques and medicinal chemistry principles to identify and develop compounds with therapeutic potential. The ideal candidate is passionate about innovation in drug discovery and eager to make a significant impact on the development of new medicines, supported by excellent research facilities and a collaborative scientific community.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel small molecules with desirable pharmacological profiles.
• Optimize lead compounds through iterative cycles of design, synthesis, and testing.
• Apply structure-activity relationship (SAR) principles to guide compound optimization.
• Collaborate closely with biologists and pharmacologists to evaluate compound efficacy and safety.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop efficient synthetic routes.
• Author scientific reports, contribute to patent applications, and present findings at internal meetings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.
• Strong proficiency in synthetic organic chemistry techniques and analytical characterization methods (NMR, MS, HPLC).
• Demonstrated experience in drug discovery projects and understanding of SAR.
• Knowledge of computational chemistry tools and their application in drug design is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including health and retirement plans.
• Performance-based bonuses tied to project milestones.
• Support for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences.
• A stimulating and collaborative research environment in Kimberley .
• Opportunity to work on impactful drug discovery programs and contribute to new therapies.