Lead Research Scientist - Computational Chemistry

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Hybrid work model

Continuous professional development

Employer retirement match

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Research Scientist in Computational Chemistry to join our R&D hub in Sandton. You will oversee a team of computational scientists, develop new strategies, and collaborate with experimental groups to accelerate drug discovery and materials design in a hybrid work environment.

The role emphasizes leadership, advanced modeling, and software tool development, with opportunities to influence research direction and contribute significantly in Sandton.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field and proven research leadership.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in computational chemistry with project leadership.
• Extensive experience with Gaussian, Schrödinger, and Amber software.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and application of computational chemistry methods and simulations.
• Design studies to predict properties, reaction pathways, and binding affinities.
• Collaborate with experimental teams to guide research strategies.
• Develop novel algorithms and software tools for computational chemistry.
• Manage projects, mentor scientists, and present findings at meetings.
• Ensure efficient use of high-performance computing resources.

Skills

Team leadership

Python

C++

Communication

Molecular modeling

High-performance computing

Education

PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field

Tools

Gaussian

Schrödinger

Amber

Python

C++

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Research Scientist in Computational Chemistry to join their R&D hub in Sandton . This role is critical for leveraging computational modeling and simulation to accelerate drug discovery and materials design. You will lead a team of computational scientists, develop novel computational strategies, and collaborate with experimental groups to solve complex scientific problems. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence research direction and make significant contributions in a hybrid work environment, benefiting from both on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and application of computational chemistry methods, including molecular modeling, DFT, and QM/MM simulations.
• Design and execute computational studies to predict molecular properties, reaction pathways, and binding affinities.
• Collaborate closely with experimental chemists and biologists to interpret results and guide research strategies.
• Develop and implement novel algorithms and software tools for computational chemistry applications.
• Manage research projects, mentor junior scientists, and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Ensure efficient use of high-performance computing resources.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in computational chemistry, with a proven track record of leading research projects.
• Extensive experience with computational chemistry software packages (e.g., Gaussian, Schrödinger, Amber).
• Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, C++) and experience with high-performance computing environments.
• Excellent understanding of quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and molecular dynamics.
• Strong communication and leadership skills for a hybrid team setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and significant bonus potential.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance in Sandton .