Medical Scientist Researcher

OttoBauthentic; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A pharmaceutical research firm in Johannesburg is seeking a skilled researcher to contribute to innovative projects. The role involves designing and executing research studies, preparing protocols, and collaborating with teams to enhance protocols with AI. Candidates should hold a BPharm or MPharm degree and have strong skills in protocol writing, analytical thinking, and project management. Excellent communication skills are essential. This position represents a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in the pharmaceutical industry is an added advantage.
• Experience applying AI will be an added advantage.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute pre-clinical and/or clinical research studies.
• Prepare detailed research protocols and study designs.
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Writing protocols

Action research

Clinical studies

Analytical thinking

Excellent communication

Project management

Team player

Education

BPharm or MPharm degree

Job description

Role

To contribute to innovative pharmaceutical research projects by designing, executing pre-clinical and clinical research projects.

Scientific Research & Protocol Management

• Design and execute pre-clinical and/or clinical research studies in line with ICH-GCP and other regulatory guidelines.
• Prepare detailed research protocols, study designs, and statistical analysis plans.
• Conduct literature reviews and scientific gap analyses to guide study focus and approach.
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards, research governance frameworks, and regulatory requirements.

AI & Data Science Integration

• To enhance clinical protocol using AI.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to use predictive modelling and data mining in drug target identification and lead optimization.
• Interpret model outputs and integrate insights into the experimental research process.
• Drive the adoption of AI tools such as natural language processing (NLP) for literature mining, or computer vision for image analysis.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Liaise with clinical, regulatory, quality, and commercial teams to align research outcomes with strategic objectives.
• Present findings to internal stakeholders and at scientific forums or conferences.
• Contribute to scientific publications and patent applications.

Qualifications & Experience

Minimum Requirements

• BPharm or MPharm degree
• Experience in pharmaceutical industry will be an added advantage / Nutraceuticals
• Experience applying AI will be an added advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Writing protocols
• Action research
• Clinical studies
• Analytical thinking with a hypothesis-driven approach to problem solving.
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Passion for scientific discovery and innovation.
• Team player