Lead Research Scientist - Organic Synthesis

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Growth opportunities

Modern labs

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, is seeking a highly skilled Lead Research Scientist in Organic Synthesis to join our pharmaceutical R&D team. This senior role drives discovery and development of novel small molecules and mentors a team of talented organic chemists.

You will design and execute complex multi-step syntheses, optimize reaction conditions for yield and purity, and characterize compounds using NMR, MS, and HPLC.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 7+ years post-doctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in drug discovery.
• Strong knowledge of modern synthetic methodologies, including asymmetric synthesis, catalysis, and heterocyclic chemistry.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex multi-step syntheses.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage organic synthesis projects from target identification through to lead optimization.
• Design and execute complex, multi-step synthetic routes for novel small molecules.
• Develop and optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, MS, HPLC).
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior synthetic organic chemists, fostering their professional development.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and related fields.
• Contribute to patent filings and scientific publications.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety procedures and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent pharmaceutical research and development company, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Research Scientist specializing in Organic Synthesis to join their dynamic team in Mahikeng, North West . This senior role is crucial for driving the discovery and development of novel small molecule therapeutics. You will lead synthetic chemistry efforts, design and execute complex multi-step syntheses, and mentor a team of talented organic chemists. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern synthetic methodologies, a proven track record of successfully synthesizing complex molecules, and a passion for medicinal chemistry. You will be responsible for troubleshooting challenging synthetic routes, optimizing reaction conditions, and ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality compounds for preclinical studies. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to life‑saving drug discovery programs within a collaborative and innovative research environment. Located in Mahikeng, North West , this role provides a chance to work in a growing scientific hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage organic synthesis projects from target identification through to lead optimization.
• Design and execute complex, multi-step synthetic routes for novel small molecules.
• Develop and optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, MS, HPLC).
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior synthetic organic chemists, fostering their professional development.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and related fields.
• Contribute to patent filings and scientific publications.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety procedures and best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in drug discovery.
• Demonstrated expertise in modern synthetic methodologies, including asymmetric synthesis, catalysis, and heterocyclic chemistry.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex multi-step syntheses.
• Strong proficiency in spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization.
• Experience in leading research projects and mentoring junior scientists.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• A passion for drug discovery and innovation.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. Employees will have access to state-of-the-art synthesis laboratories and collaborate with leading experts in the pharmaceutical industry. Located in Mahikeng, North West , this role provides a rewarding career path and the chance to make a tangible impact on human health. We also offer performance-based bonuses and a supportive work culture that values innovation and teamwork. Join a company dedicated to advancing healthcare through scientific excellence.