Lead Principal Scientist - Drug Discovery (Centurion)

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24's client, a pioneering pharmaceutical research firm in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a distinguished Principal Scientist to lead critical drug discovery initiatives. The role requires guiding design, synthesis, and preclinical evaluation of novel small molecules, setting scientific direction, and managing project teams across discovery stages.

The successful candidate will drive SAR analyses, optimize pharmacology, DMPK, and toxicology considerations, collaborate with external

Qualifications

• PhD required in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Pharmacology, or related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in drug discovery.
• Proven track record leading discovery projects from inception to preclinical candidate selection.
• Expertise in modern medicinal chemistry techniques, SAR analysis, and drug design principles.
• Strong pharmacology, DMPK, and toxicology knowledge.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with biologics discovery is a plus.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary drug discovery project teams, from target identification through to candidate nomination.
• Design and oversee the synthesis and optimization of novel small molecules with desired pharmacological profiles.
• Develop and implement in vitro and in vivo assays to assess compound efficacy, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties.
• Critically evaluate experimental data, identify potential risks and mitigation strategies, and make informed go/no-go decisions.
• Collaborate closely with external partners, key opinion leaders, and internal stakeholders.
• Author and contribute to scientific publications, patent applications, and regulatory submissions.
• Provide scientific mentorship and guidance to junior researchers and scientists.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and relevant therapeutic areas.
• Contribute to strategic planning and business development activities for the R&D division.

Skills

Leadership

Drug discovery leadership

Medicinal chemistry

SAR analysis

Project management

Education

PhD in Medicinal Chemistry/Organic Chemistry/Pharmacology

Job description

Placements24's client, a pioneering pharmaceutical research firm in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a distinguished Principal Scientist to lead critical drug discovery initiatives. The role requires guiding design, synthesis, and preclinical evaluation of novel small molecules, setting scientific direction, and managing project teams across discovery stages.

The successful candidate will drive SAR analyses, optimize pharmacology, DMPK, and toxicology considerations, collaborate with external