Principal Medicinal Chemist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Health, dental, vision benefits

Retirement plan

Paid vacation

Professional development andConference

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Medicinal Chemist to lead design, synthesis, and optimization of novel small molecules in a high-impact pharma program in Klerksdorp, North West. The role demands a PhD and deep expertise in medicinal chemistry with a track record in early drug discovery.

The candidate will mentor teams, drive SAR-driven optimization, and collaborate with cross-functional scientists to translate chemistry into viable drug candidates.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry.
• Minimum of 8 years of industry experience in drug discovery with a strong medicinal chemistry focus.
• Proven track record advancing drug candidates from discovery through preclinical stages.
• Expertise in modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques and purification methods.
• Deep understanding of ADME/Tox principles and their impact on drug design.
• Familiarity with computational chemistry software and molecular modeling techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently within a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel chemical entities for therapeutic targets.
• Conduct SAR studies to optimize potency, selectivity, and PK properties.
• Develop innovative synthetic routes for complex molecules with scalable processes.
• Collaborate with biologists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists to integrate data.
• Utilize computational tools to support design decisions.
• Lead medicinal chemistry efforts within discovery projects and provide strategic direction.
• Mentor and supervise junior chemists and researchers.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and conferences.
• Ensure laboratory activities comply with safety standards.

Skills

Medicinal chemistry

SAR studies

Project leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Organic/ Medicinal Chemistry

Tools

Computational chemistry software

Molecular modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the pharmaceutical industry, is actively seeking a highly accomplished Principal Medicinal Chemist to join their esteemed research division in Klerksdorp, North West, ZA . This senior position is critical for spearheading the design, synthesis, and optimization of novel small molecules with therapeutic potential. The ideal candidate will bring extensive expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, drug design principles, and a deep understanding of structure-activity relationships (SAR). You will be instrumental in driving the early-stage drug discovery programs from hit identification through lead optimization. This role demands a strategic thinker with a passion for innovation and a proven ability to translate complex chemical challenges into successful drug candidates. Joining our client means becoming part of a forward-thinking organization committed to developing life-changing medicines. Your leadership and scientific acumen will be vital in navigating the intricacies of medicinal chemistry and contributing to significant advancements in therapeutic areas. This is an exciting opportunity to lead impactful projects and shape the future of drug development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel chemical entities with desired pharmacological profiles for therapeutic targets.
• Conduct structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to optimize potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties of lead compounds.
• Develop and implement innovative synthetic routes for complex molecules, ensuring efficient and scalable processes.
• Collaborate closely with biologists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists to integrate data and guide project progression.
• Utilize computational chemistry tools and databases to support compound design and decision-making.
• Lead medicinal chemistry efforts within assigned discovery projects, providing strategic direction and scientific expertise.
• Mentor and supervise junior medicinal chemists and research associates, fostering their scientific and professional growth.
• Author and present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with safety regulations and best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery, with a strong focus on medicinal chemistry.
• Proven track record of contributing to the advancement of drug candidates from discovery to preclinical development.
• Expertise in modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques and purification methods.
• Deep understanding of ADME/Tox principles and their impact on drug design.
• Familiarity with computational chemistry software and molecular modeling techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong publication record in reputable journals and/or patent filings.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including an attractive base salary, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits. These include excellent health, dental, and vision coverage, a robust retirement plan, and ample paid vacation time. Opportunities for professional development, attending scientific conferences, and continuous learning are actively encouraged. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the direction of drug discovery programs within the innovative environment of Klerksdorp, North West, ZA .