Lead Research Scientist - Pharmaceutical Discovery

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Professional development programs

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist to drive drug discovery initiatives in a hybrid Gauteng setting. You will lead projects from target discovery to lead optimization, develop novel assay methods, and oversee small-molecule synthesis and validation.

The role requires a PhD and 7+ years in pharmaceutical R&D, with a strong background in medicinal chemistry, SAR, and assay development. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and contribute to patents and publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of industry experience in pharmaceutical R&D.
• Experience leading drug discovery programs and advancing compounds to preclinical development.
• Expertise in medicinal chemistry, SAR analysis, and synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proficiency in assay development and validation (biochemical and cell-based assays).
• Strong understanding of molecular biology and disease mechanisms in therapeutic areas of interest.
• Proven leadership, project management and communication skills.
• Experience in hybrid work environments balancing remote and on-site work.
• Track record of publications and/or patents in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of drug discovery projects from target identification to lead optimization.
• Develop novel assay methodologies to assess compound efficacy and MOA.
• Oversee synthesis and characterization of small molecule candidates.
• Analyze complex experimental data to guide project direction.
• Collaborate with pharmacologists, toxicologists, and clinical teams.
• Manage collaborations with academics and CROs.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster scientific excellence.
• Prepare research reports, presentations, and contribute to patents/publications.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Scientific communication

Medicinal chemistry

SAR analysis

Assay development

Literature review

Publications/patents

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or related life science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering force in pharmaceutical innovation, seeking an exceptional Lead Research Scientist to drive critical drug discovery initiatives. Based in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA, this role offers a compelling blend of laboratory-based research and strategic leadership. You will spearhead projects focused on identifying and validating novel therapeutic targets, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of disease biology and a proven track record in medicinal chemistry or pharmacology. This hybrid role allows for flexible work arrangements, balancing focused work at home with essential in-person collaboration in our state-of-the-art facilities. Your expertise will be pivotal in shaping the future pipeline of life-saving medicines. We encourage applications from seasoned professionals eager to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of drug discovery projects from target identification through lead optimization.
• Develop and implement novel assay methodologies to assess compound efficacy and mechanism of action.
• Oversee the synthesis and characterization of small molecule drug candidates.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing insightful conclusions to guide project direction.
• Collaborate closely with pharmacologists, toxicologists, and clinical development teams.
• Manage external collaborations with academic institutions and contract research organizations.
• Mentor and supervise junior scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.
• Prepare research reports, presentations, and contribute to patent filings and publications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety and regulatory guidelines.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant industry experience in pharmaceutical research and development.
• Demonstrated success in leading drug discovery programs and advancing compounds into preclinical development.
• Expertise in medicinal chemistry principles, structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis, and synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proficiency in assay development and validation, including biochemical and cell-based assays.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology and disease mechanisms relevant to therapeutic areas of interest.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Experience working in a hybrid work environment, effectively balancing remote and on-site responsibilities.
• Ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and translate findings into actionable research plans.
• Record of publications and/or patents in peer-reviewed journals.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based bonuses, and stock options.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and an extensive paid time off policy.
• We support professional development through ongoing training, conference attendance, and opportunities for advancement.
• Our client offers access to cutting-edge research facilities and a collaborative work environment.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance services are also available to support your overall well-being.

This role is ideal for a scientific leader seeking to make a tangible impact on global health.