Principal Scientist - Pharmaceutical Research

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 64,000 - 87,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development budget

Access to advanced facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Scientist to lead pharma research in Randburg, shaping strategy and directing a team of researchers toward new drug candidates. This senior role requires deep expertise and a track record of scientific leadership to advance therapeutic programs.

The successful candidate will influence discovery programs, guide experimental design, and publish high-impact work while collaborating with partners and departments to drive growth and innovation.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related life science field.
• 10+ years in pharmaceutical research with demonstrated leadership.
• Proven expertise across drug discovery areas and publications.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute strategic research plans for novel compounds.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams, providing scientific direction.
• Design and interpret complex biological experiments.
• Evaluate new technologies to enhance discovery efforts.
• Publish findings, file patents, and support regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to advance programs.

Skills

Leadership

Drug discovery

Project management

Strategic planning

Team mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmacology / Biochemistry / Molecular Biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Scientist to lead critical research efforts within their Pharmaceutical Research division in Randburg. This senior position is responsible for defining research strategies, managing complex projects, and driving the discovery of new drug candidates. You will leverage your deep scientific expertise and leadership capabilities to guide a team of researchers, foster innovation, and ensure the successful progression of therapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of drug discovery processes and a proven track record of scientific leadership and achievement, contributing to impactful pharmaceutical development in the Gauteng region, promoting a culture of scientific excellence and drug innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute strategic research plans for the discovery and development of novel pharmaceutical compounds.
• Lead multidisciplinary research teams, providing scientific direction and mentorship.
• Design and interpret complex biological and pharmacological experiments.
• Evaluate new technologies and approaches to enhance drug discovery efforts.
• Author high-quality scientific publications, patent applications, and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate effectively with internal departments and external partners to advance projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science field.
• Extensive experience (10+ years) in pharmaceutical research and drug discovery, with demonstrated leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in multiple areas of drug discovery, such as target identification, lead optimization, or preclinical development.
• Strong understanding of relevant biological pathways and disease mechanisms.
• Excellent track record of scientific publications and presentations.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and project management skills.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including base salary and significant bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.
• Substantial budget for professional development, including conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies in Randburg.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and strategic influence.
• Supportive and intellectually stimulating work environment.