Principal Research Scientist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 81,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance bonus

Long-term incentive awards

Retirement plan with company matching

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative drug discovery programs from our Randburg, Gauteng research center. You will guide multidisciplinary teams, set strategic directions, and drive discovery from target validation through preclinical development.

The role requires a Ph.D. in a related life science, 10+ years in drug discovery, and a proven track record in bringing candidates to early clinical development.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in life sciences required.
• At least 10 years in drug discovery with a leadership track record.
• Proven ability to lead from discovery to early clinical development.
• Extensive knowledge of disease biology, target validation and modalities (small molecules, biologics).
• Excellent written and verbal communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct drug discovery projects from target validation to preclinical candidate selection.
• Design and implement innovative research strategies across therapeutic areas.
• Mentor and manage multidisciplinary teams fostering rigor and collaboration.
• Collaborate with chemistry, biology, pharmacology, toxicology and clinical development experts.
• Oversee experimental design, data interpretation and high-quality data generation.
• Present findings and strategic plans to senior management and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to IP development and scientific publications.
• Stay abreast of advances and competitive landscape in drug discovery.
• Manage project timelines, budgets and resources; ensure compliance with ethical and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Team mentoring

Drug discovery

Scientific communication

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related life science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-leading pharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative drug discovery programs from their state-of-the-art research center in Randburg, Gauteng. This senior role is critical for identifying and advancing novel therapeutic candidates from target validation through preclinical development. The Principal Research Scientist will guide multidisciplinary teams, set strategic research direction, and contribute scientific expertise across various therapeutic areas. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of disease biology, a proven track record in successful drug discovery, and exceptional leadership skills. The position offers a unique opportunity to make a profound impact on patient lives and shape the future of medicine within a dynamic and collaborative environment in Randburg, Gauteng. Join a company committed to scientific excellence and breakthrough innovation in healthcare.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct drug discovery projects, from target identification and validation to lead optimization and preclinical candidate selection.
• Design and implement cutting-edge research strategies to address unmet medical needs across various therapeutic areas.
• Guide and mentor a team of scientists, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and collaboration.
• Collaborate closely with experts in chemistry, biology, pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical development.
• Oversee experimental design, data interpretation, and the generation of high-quality scientific data.
• Present research findings and strategic plans to senior management and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and scientific publications.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and competitive landscape in drug discovery.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all ethical, regulatory, and safety standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drug discovery within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in bringing drug candidates from discovery through to early clinical development.
• Extensive knowledge of disease biology, target validation strategies, and various modalities of drug discovery (small molecules, biologics).
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex, multidisciplinary research projects.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills, with experience presenting to diverse audiences.
• Strong networking and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships across departments and organizations.
• Experience with managing external research collaborations is a plus.
• A passion for scientific innovation and delivering transformative medicines.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, a significant annual bonus, and long-term incentive awards.
• The comprehensive benefits program includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with company matching, and extensive paid time off.
• We provide unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement.
• The Randburg, Gauteng location boasts state-of-the-art research facilities within a vibrant scientific community.
• We are dedicated to fostering a culture that rewards innovation and values employee well-being.