Pharmaceutical Research Scientist (Medicinal Chemistry)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health & wellness

Retirement plan

Generous PTO

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Pharmaceutical Research Scientist in Welkom to lead medicinal chemistry efforts, designing and synthesizing novel drug candidates and optimizing lead compounds. This role demands SAR expertise and a proven synthesis track record in a collaborative lab setting.

You will work cross-functionally with biology, pharmacology, and DMPK teams, contribute to IP, and present findings at internal meetings and conferences in a fast-moving pharmaceutical environment in the Free

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years postdoctoral or industry experience in medicinal chemistry.
• Extensive experience in synthetic organic chemistry with modern methods.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic and chromatographic characterization.
• Strong SAR understanding and drug design applications.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules for drug discovery.
• Plan complex synthetic routes using retrosynthetic analysis.
• Purify and characterize compounds using NMR, LC-MS, and HPLC.
• Optimize lead compounds through iterative design and testing.
• Collaborate with biologists, pharmacologists, and DMPK teams.
• Maintain detailed notebooks and report progress.
• Contribute to IP generation through disclosures and patent applications.
• Ensure safe, compliant laboratory operations.
• Present findings at meetings and conferences.

Skills

Medicinal chemistry

Organic synthesis

SAR (structure-activity relationships)

Analytical techniques

Teamwork

Communication

Education

PhD in Organic or Medicinal Chemistry

Tools

NMR

LC-MS

HPLC

Purification techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazing innovator in the pharmaceutical industry, is actively seeking a dedicated Pharmaceutical Research Scientist specializing in Medicinal Chemistry to join their prestigious research facility in Welkom, Free State . This role is crucial for the discovery and optimization of novel small molecule drug candidates. The scientist will be responsible for the design, synthesis, and characterization of new chemical entities with potential therapeutic value. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of drug discovery and require a talented chemist to drive our lead optimization programs. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research within a supportive and collaborative laboratory environment, situated in the heart of Welkom, Free State . The ideal candidate will possess a strong passion for organic synthesis and a deep understanding of structure-activity relationships, essential for success in this demanding pharmaceutical research role.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules for drug discovery programs, with a focus on medicinal chemistry principles.
• Conduct literature searches and employ retrosynthetic analysis to plan complex synthetic routes.
• Purify and characterize synthesized compounds using various analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, LC-MS, HPLC).
• Optimize lead compounds through iterative design, synthesis, and biological testing to improve potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties.
• Collaborate closely with biologists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists to assess the biological activity and ADME profiles of synthesized compounds.
• Manage synthesis projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and experimental records.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Contribute to the generation of intellectual property through invention disclosures and patent applications.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure a safe working environment.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and potentially at external scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in medicinal chemistry, with a strong track record of successful synthesis and compound optimization.
• Extensive experience in synthetic organic chemistry, including modern synthetic methodologies and purification techniques.
• Proficiency in using spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization.
• Demonstrated understanding of structure-activity relationships (SAR) and their application in drug design.
• Familiarity with drug discovery processes and the requirements for advancing compounds through the pipeline.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex scientific data.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

Our client is offering a highly competitive salary, reflective of the expertise required for this specialized pharmaceutical research role. Beyond a generous annual income, the benefits package includes comprehensive health and wellness programs, a substantial retirement savings contribution, and excellent paid time off. Opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and participation in leading scientific forums are readily available. The company fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration, providing access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities in Welkom, Free State . Join a dedicated team focused on discovering the next generation of life-saving medicines. This is an exceptional career opportunity within the pharmaceutical research sector.