Lead Synthetic Organic Chemist

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Relocation assistance

Competitive salary

Retirement savings plan

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Synthetic Organic Chemist for its client in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will spearhead design and execution of multi‑step syntheses for novel drug candidates, while mentoring a team of chemists and ensuring compliant, efficient laboratory operations.

The role requires a PhD in Organic Chemistry with 6+ years in synthetic chemistry, including asymmetric synthesis, catalysis, and flow chemistry. Collaboration across disciplines and contribution to publications are expected.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 6+ years post‑doctoral or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Expertise in designing and executing multi‑step syntheses of complex molecules.
• Proficiency with asymmetric synthesis, catalysis, and flow chemistry.
• Experience with spectroscopy and chromatographic analysis; strong leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of synthetic routes for novel drug candidates.
• Develop and optimize synthetic methodologies to improve yield and purity.
• Oversee synthesis of target compounds, intermediates, and standards.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to advance programs.
• Analyze reaction progress using NMR, MS, HPLC; troubleshoot challenges.
• Mentor junior chemists and manage laboratory resources.
• Prepare reports and contribute to patents and publications.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Medicinal chemistry

Analytical chemistry

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

GC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent pharmaceutical research organization seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Synthetic Organic Chemist to join their drug discovery team in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This senior role is crucial for the design and synthesis of novel small molecules with therapeutic potential. You will be responsible for leading synthetic chemistry projects, developing innovative synthetic routes, and mentoring a team of talented chemists. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern synthetic methodologies, a strong track record of successful synthesis of complex molecules, and excellent leadership capabilities. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of life‑saving medicines and drive innovation within our cutting‑edge research facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of synthetic routes for novel small molecule drug candidates.
• Develop and optimize synthetic methodologies to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Oversee the synthesis of target compounds, intermediates, and reference standards.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Analyze reaction progress and product characterization using techniques such as NMR, MS, and HPLC.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and identify innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior synthetic chemists, fostering their professional development.
• Manage laboratory resources and ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices.
• Prepare detailed reports on synthetic activities and contribute to patent applications and scientific publications.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and drug discovery.

Requirements

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of post‑doctoral or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry, with a strong focus on medicinal chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing and executing multi‑step syntheses of complex organic molecules.
• Proficiency with modern synthetic techniques, including asymmetric synthesis, catalysis, and flow chemistry.
• Extensive experience in spectroscopic and chromatographic analysis (NMR, MS, HPLC, GC).
• Proven ability to lead projects and mentor junior chemists effectively.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience working in a pharmaceutical R&D environment in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
• A strong publication record or patent history is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Performance incentives.
• Generous paid time off.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates moving to Vereeniging, Gauteng.