Senior Research Scientist - Organic Synthesis

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Performance bonuses

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Conference funding

Generous paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Organic Synthesis to join a prominent pharmaceutical research organization in Welkom, Free State. You will design and execute complex multi-step routes for potential drug candidates, optimize conditions for higher yields and scalability, and collaborate with medicinal chemists to drive drug discovery.

The role requires a PhD in Organic Chemistry and at least 5 years of relevant experience, with strong expertise in modern synthetic

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex multi-step organic syntheses.
• Hands-on experience with modern synthetic methodologies and reaction types.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic characterization and chromatographic purification methods.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute efficient, multi-step synthetic routes for novel small molecules, including potential drug candidates.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yields, purity, and scalability of synthetic processes.
• Perform purification techniques such as chromatography (flash, HPLC) and crystallization.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques including NMR, Mass Spectrometry, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
• Mentor junior research associates and chemists; collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to advance drug discovery projects.

Skills

Multistep synthesis

NMR interpretation

Mass spectrometry

Chromatography

Problem solving

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR Spectroscopy

HPLC

Mass Spectrometry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent pharmaceutical research organization, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Scientist specializing in Organic Synthesis to join their innovative team in **Welkom, Free State**. This role is crucial for the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex synthetic routes, contributing to the expansion of our client's drug pipeline. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of modern synthetic organic chemistry, with a proven track record of success in multi-step synthesis and reaction optimization. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility alongside leading scientific minds in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. We are looking for a candidate with a passion for scientific innovation and a commitment to excellence. The position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our dedication to attracting top talent to **Welkom, Free State**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute efficient, multi-step synthetic routes for novel small molecules, including potential drug candidates.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yields, purity, and scalability of synthetic processes.
• Perform purification techniques such as chromatography (flash, HPLC) and crystallization.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques including NMR, Mass Spectrometry, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks, documenting all experiments and results.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and other research scientists to advance drug discovery projects.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and propose innovative solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and relevant technologies.
• Manage laboratory inventory and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior research associates and chemists, providing technical guidance and support.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proven expertise in designing and executing complex multi-step organic syntheses.
• Hands-on experience with a wide range of modern synthetic methodologies and reaction types.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic characterization techniques (NMR, MS) and chromatographic purification methods.
• Strong understanding of reaction mechanisms and kinetics.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to synthetic challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present scientific findings effectively.
• Experience working within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry in **Welkom, Free State** or similar environments is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive annual salary, along with performance-based bonuses and stock options.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans are available.
• We support continuous professional growth through funding for scientific conferences, workshops, and advanced training.
• Employees enjoy a generous annual leave allowance, complemented by paid sick leave and observance of all national holidays.
• A strong emphasis is placed on work-life balance, supported by a collaborative team culture at our **Welkom, Free State** research center.
• Additional perks include access to advanced research tools and a stimulating scientific community.