Lead Research Scientist - Pharmaceutical Development (Remote)

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Stock options

Professional development budget

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist for a fully remote role in pharmaceutical research and development. You will lead drug discovery projects, design and validate biological assays, oversee preclinical studies, and mentor a global team of scientists.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or Biochemistry with 7+ years post‑doctoral experience in the industry, proven leadership, and a strong publication record.

Qualifications

• PhD in a life-science discipline.
• 7+ years post‑doctoral experience in pharma R&D.
• Proven drug discovery, assay development, and preclinical expertise.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on drug discovery and development.
• Design, develop, and validate biological assays for drug candidates.
• Oversee preclinical studies including in vitro and in vivo models.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and advise on project progression.
• Mentor a remote team of research associates and scientists.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (chemistry, DMPK, clinical).
• Contribute to regulatory submission documents and publications.
• Stay updated with literature and emerging pharma technologies.
• Present findings at internal meetings and external conferences.

Education

PhD in Pharmacology / Molecular Biology / Biochemistry

Tools

ELN software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading organization in Scientific Research & Development, is seeking an accomplished Lead Research Scientist to drive innovation in pharmaceutical development. This is a fully remote position, offering the chance to contribute to critical drug discovery and development programs from anywhere. You will lead research initiatives, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to strategic planning within the R&D department. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in drug discovery, assay development, and preclinical research, with a proven ability to manage complex projects and foster a collaborative spirit in a virtual team setting. This role is integral to advancing our client's pipeline of novel therapeutics. While the team operates globally, Paarl, Western Cape, ZA represents a key operational vicinity for this specialized R&D division.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on novel drug discovery and development.
• Design, develop, and validate biological assays for screening and characterization of drug candidates.
• Oversee preclinical studies, including in vitro and in vivo models.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and make strategic recommendations for project progression.
• Mentor and guide a team of research associates and scientists, fostering their professional development.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including chemistry, DMPK, and clinical development.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory submission documents and publications.
• Stay current with scientific literature, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape in pharmaceutical R&D.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in the pharmaceutical industry or a related R&D setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in drug discovery methodologies, target validation, and lead optimization.
• Proven experience in designing and executing complex biological assays.
• Strong understanding of preclinical development processes and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead effectively in a fully remote environment.
• Strong publication record and experience presenting scientific data.
• Experience with data analysis software and electronic laboratory notebooks.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous stock options and long-term incentive programs.
• Significant budget for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible scheduling.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on the development of life-saving medicines.
• Collaborative and innovative research culture.