Principal Computational Chemist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & bonuses

Healthcare package

Relocation assistance

Cutting-edge computing infrastructure

Work-life balance culture

Job summary

Placements24 in George seeks a Principal Computational Chemist to lead advanced research in computational chemistry, modelling reactions, properties, and materials to accelerate discovery and design. The role includes setting strategy and mentoring a team while collaborating closely with experimental groups to validate predictions.

The position offers leadership responsibilities, access to cutting-edge computing resources, and opportunities to influence the development of novel compounds and

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field with emphasis on computational methods.
• Minimum 8 years applying computational chemistry to solve scientific problems.
• Proven leadership of research projects and team mentoring.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply QM/MM, DFT, and MD methodologies for research problems.
• Design virtual screening campaigns for drug discovery or materials.
• Analyze datasets for SAR and reaction mechanisms.
• Collaborate with experimental teams to guide synthesis and validate results.
• Lead and mentor a team of computational chemists and evaluate new tools.

Skills

QM/MM

DFT

MD simulations

Cheminformatics

Leadership

Education

PhD in Computational Chemistry

Tools

Gaussian

Schrodinger suite

Amber

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an exceptional Principal Computational Chemist to lead critical research initiatives within their cutting-edge R&D facility in George . This senior role involves leveraging advanced computational techniques to model and predict chemical reactions, molecular properties, and material behaviors, significantly accelerating the discovery and design process. You will be instrumental in setting the strategic direction for computational chemistry, mentoring a team of skilled chemists, and collaborating closely with experimental groups to validate theoretical predictions. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on the development of novel compounds and processes within a forward-thinking organization that values scientific rigor and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply advanced computational chemistry methodologies, including quantum mechanics (QM) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.


• Design and execute virtual screening campaigns to identify promising candidate molecules for drug discovery or material development.


• Analyze complex datasets to gain insights into structure-activity relationships and reaction mechanisms.


• Collaborate with experimental chemists and biologists to guide synthesis efforts and interpret experimental results.


• Lead and mentor a team of computational chemists, fostering their professional growth and ensuring project success.


• Evaluate and implement new computational tools and software to enhance research capabilities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, or a related field with a strong focus on computational methods.


• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in applying computational chemistry techniques to solve complex scientific problems.


• Demonstrated expertise in QM/MM, DFT, MD simulations, and cheminformatics.


• Proficiency with computational chemistry software packages (e.g., Gaussian, Schrodinger suite, Amber).


• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor scientific staff.


• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a strong publication record.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and substantial performance-based bonuses.


• Comprehensive healthcare package, including extensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.


• Generous relocation assistance and support for ongoing professional development.


• Access to leading-edge computing infrastructure and research tools.


• A culture that promotes scientific innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance.