Remote Senior Research Scientist - Organic Synthesis

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 216,000 - 324,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Home office stipend

Online courses funding

Virtual conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Organic Synthesis to join a fully remote research team. You will design and execute multi-step routes for novel organic molecules, optimize conditions for higher yield and purity, and characterize compounds using advanced analytical methods.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with 5+ years of post‑doctoral or industrial experience, independent project leadership, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years post‑doc or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of organic reactions and synthetic methodologies.
• Proficiency in modern spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Strong understanding of reaction mechanisms and stereochemistry.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute multi-step synthetic routes for complex organic molecules.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity and efficiency.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using NMR, MS, IR, HPLC, GC.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate synthesis with research goals.
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, and contribute to patent applications.
• Present research findings to internal teams and at external conferences.

Skills

Org synthesis expertise

Spectroscopy & chromatography

Mechanisms & stereochemistry

Independent project design

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

IR

HPLC

GC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals and advanced materials, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Research Scientist specializing in Organic Synthesis to join their fully Remote research team. This is a premier opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge discovery and development projects from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex synthetic routes for novel organic molecules, optimizing reaction conditions, and characterizing synthesized compounds. This role requires a deep understanding of organic chemistry principles, advanced synthetic methodologies, and modern analytical techniques. We are looking for an independent, highly motivated scientist who thrives in a remote-first environment and can collaborate effectively with a globally distributed team. Your work will be crucial in developing new chemical entities for various industrial applications. This position is fully remote, providing flexibility and the chance to work from your chosen location. We offer comprehensive support and resources to ensure success in a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute multi-step synthetic routes for complex organic molecules.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using a range of analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, MS, IR, HPLC, GC).
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Conduct literature reviews to identify new synthetic methodologies and target compounds.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate synthetic efforts with broader research goals.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research summaries, and contribute to patent applications.
• Present research findings and strategies to internal teams and potentially at external conferences.
• Maintain meticulous records of experimental procedures and results.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and best practices for remote laboratory work if applicable, or coordinate synthesis at external labs.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of organic reactions and synthetic methodologies.
• Proficiency in modern spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization.
• Strong understanding of reaction mechanisms and stereochemistry.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic projects independently.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to synthetic challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document and present research effectively.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience working in a remote or hybrid research environment is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with process chemistry and scale-up considerations is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses and professional development allowances. Health and wellness support is provided, recognizing the needs of remote employees. A generous home office stipend and funding for online courses, virtual conferences, and relevant literature access are available. While this role is fully remote, strong communication and collaboration are fostered through regular virtual team meetings and project platforms. You will have the opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in chemical innovation from the comfort of your own home, based anywhere in South Africa