Senior Research Scientist - Analytical Chemistry

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 96,000 - 128,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Access to modern instrumentation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Scientist in Analytical Chemistry for its Queenstown facility. You will develop, validate, and implement advanced analytical methods using HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, FTIR, and UV-Vis, ensuring quality and compliance. Mentoring junior scientists and collaborating with R&D teams are key aspects.

The role emphasizes problem-solving, data interpretation, and staying current with analytical innovations while upholding GLP and ISO standards.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Analytical Chemistry or related field.
• 5+ years hands-on analytical chemistry experience.
• Experience with HPLC/UPLC, GC, and MS.
• Experience with data analysis software and LIMS.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for materials and products.
• Operate and maintain HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, FTIR, and UV-Vis instruments.
• Perform routine and advanced analyses to support R&D and production.
• Interpret data, troubleshoot methods, and prepare detailed reports.
• Collaborate with R&D teams and mentor junior scientists.
• Ensure GLP/ISO compliance and maintain safety standards.

Skills

Mentoring

Independent work

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

PhD or MSc in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC/UPLC

GC

MS

NMR

FTIR

UV-Vis

LC-MS

GC-MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in specialized chemical manufacturing and research, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Scientist specializing in Analytical Chemistry for our facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This role is central to ensuring the quality, purity, and characterization of novel chemical compounds and materials developed by our R&D teams. You will be responsible for developing, validating, and implementing advanced analytical methods using a range of state-of-the-art instrumentation. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of chromatographic techniques (HPLC, GC), spectroscopic methods (MS, NMR, IR, UV-Vis), and other relevant analytical procedures. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on challenging scientific problems, contribute to product development, and mentor junior scientists within a robust research and development environment. We are committed to scientific excellence and innovation in chemical analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Operate and maintain a suite of analytical instruments including HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectrometers.
• Perform routine and complex chemical analyses to support research and production.
• Interpret analytical data and troubleshoot method or instrument issues.
• Prepare detailed analytical reports and documentation for regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to understand analytical needs and provide solutions.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in analytical chemistry techniques and instrumentation.
• Mentor and train junior analytical chemists.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety and quality standards (e.g., GLP, ISO).

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in analytical chemistry, preferably in a research or industrial setting.
• Extensive experience with chromatographic techniques (HPLC, UPLC, GC) and mass spectrometry (LC-MS, GC-MS).
• Proficiency in spectroscopic methods such as NMR, IR, and UV-Vis.
• Strong understanding of method development, validation, and qualification principles.
• Experience with data analysis software and LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and skill development. The position in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, provides a stable work environment and opportunities for career advancement. We provide access to modern analytical instrumentation and foster a culture of scientific rigor and collaboration. Join our team and contribute to high-quality chemical research and development.