Lead Chemist: Pharma Synthesis & Development

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Lead Chemist to head the Pharmaceutical Synthesis division in George. Lead organic synthesis, process chemistry, and analytical development within R&D, while mentoring chemists and delivering milestones in a state-of-the-art facility.

The role requires a PhD in Organic Chemistry with 7+ years in pharma R&D, and a strong track record in multi-step synthesis and scale-up. GMP compliance and leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years in pharma R&D with focus on synthesis and process chemistry.
• Experience in multi-step synthesis, scale-up, and reaction optimization.
• Strong analytical skills with spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Proven leadership and R&D team management.
• Knowledge of drug discovery and development processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of synthetic routes for complex molecules.
• Develop scalable, efficient processes for manufacturing.
• Oversee analytical method development and validation (HPLC, GC-MS, NMR).
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Mentor a team of chemists and provide career development support.
• Ensure GMP-compliant laboratory practices and safety.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Process chemistry

Project management

Leadership

Analytical methods

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

NMR

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Lead Chemist to head the Pharmaceutical Synthesis division in George. Lead organic synthesis, process chemistry, and analytical development within R&D, while mentoring chemists and delivering milestones in a state-of-the-art facility.

The role requires a PhD in Organic Chemistry with 7+ years in pharma R&D, and a strong track record in multi-step synthesis and scale-up. GMP compliance and leadership are essential.