Principal Clinical Research Scientist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Generous leave

Travel opportunities

Global conferences

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Principal Clinical Research Scientist to spearhead innovative research initiatives from the office. You will design and execute clinical trials advancing novel therapies, guiding development with scientific leadership and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Reporting to the Clinical Research leadership, you will interpret complex data and mentor junior scientists while contributing to the department's scientific strategy in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.D. in life sciences.
• 10+ years in clinical research and drug development in pharma.
• Proven track record in designing and executing Phase II/III trials.
• Strong knowledge of trial methodology, statistics, and regulatory landscapes (FDA, EMA, SAHPRA).
• Excellent leadership and communication; able to influence stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of clinical trial protocols.
• Provide expert input throughout trial lifecycle from protocol to final report.
• Analyze trial data to guide development and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with R&D, regulatory, and medical affairs for trial execution.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to scientific strategy.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Clinical trial design

Data interpretation

Regulatory awareness

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Ph.D. or M.D.

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly accomplished Principal Clinical Research Scientist to spearhead innovative research initiatives from their Cape Town office. This senior position is integral to designing and executing clinical trials that advance novel therapeutic agents through the development pipeline. You will provide scientific leadership, interpret complex data, and ensure the scientific integrity and regulatory compliance of all clinical research activities. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of medicine within a leading pharmaceutical organization, contributing significantly to patient well-being in Cape Town and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of clinical trial protocols, ensuring scientific rigor and alignment with regulatory requirements.
• Provide expert scientific and clinical input throughout the trial lifecycle, from protocol development to final study report.
• Analyze and interpret clinical trial data, generating insights that guide drug development strategy and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, regulatory affairs, and medical affairs, to ensure seamless trial execution.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements, therapeutic trends, and regulatory guidelines relevant to clinical research.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the scientific strategy and growth of the clinical research department.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.D.) in a relevant life science discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in clinical research and drug development within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of successfully designing and executing complex Phase II/III clinical trials.
• Deep understanding of clinical trial methodology, statistical principles, and regulatory landscapes (e.g., FDA, EMA, SAHPRA).
• Exceptional scientific acumen, analytical skills, and critical thinking abilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with substantial performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick leave provisions.
• Opportunities for international travel and participation in global scientific conferences.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment focused on scientific excellence in Western Cape.