Principal Research Chemist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Ample paid time off

Access to scientific literature

Virtual training programs

Conference support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Chemist to lead high-impact organic synthesis projects in Centurion, Gauteng. You will design complex routes, optimize catalytic processes, and guide a team of junior chemists while advancing the company’s IP portfolio.

You will work remotely from Centurion or any approved location, collaborate with biologists and process chemists, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals while driving innovation and scientific excellence.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral or industrial research experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in asymmetric synthesis, organometallic chemistry, or flow chemistry.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and delivering innovative results.
• Extensive experience with modern synthetic techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Excellent command of organic reaction mechanisms and physical organic chemistry principles.
• Strong publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple research priorities in a remote environment.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with computational chemistry tools is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex organic synthesis projects to create novel chemical entities.
• Develop and optimize synthetic methodologies, including catalytic processes, for efficient and scalable production.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of reaction mechanisms and kinetics.
• Utilise advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques (NMR, MS, HPLC, GC) for structural elucidation and purity assessment.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior research chemists, fostering their technical and scientific development.
• Author high-quality research reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including biologists, toxicologists and process chemists.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of current literature and emerging trends.

Skills

Asymmetric synthesis

Organometallic chemistry

Flow chemistry

Project leadership

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in chemical innovation, is seeking an exceptional Principal Research Chemist to join their esteemed research division in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA . This is a senior-level position requiring extensive experience in organic synthesis and catalysis, with a focus on developing novel compounds for pharmaceutical and agricultural applications. You will lead independent research projects, mentor junior chemists, and contribute significantly to the company's intellectual property portfolio. The ideal candidate will possess a proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic routes, troubleshoot challenging reactions, and interpret analytical data with precision. This role offers the chance to work on high-impact projects in a collaborative and resource-rich environment. You will be instrumental in driving the discovery of new chemical entities. This position is perfect for a seasoned chemist looking to make a significant contribution to scientific advancement from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex organic synthesis projects to create novel chemical entities.
• Develop and optimize synthetic methodologies, including catalytic processes, for efficient and scalable production.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of reaction mechanisms and kinetics.
• Utilise advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques (NMR, MS, HPLC, GC) for structural elucidation and purity assessment.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior research chemists, fostering their technical and scientific development.
• Author high-quality research reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including biologists, toxicologists and process chemists.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of current literature and emerging trends.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral or industrial research experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in asymmetric synthesis, organometallic chemistry, or flow chemistry.
• Proven track record of successfully leading research projects and delivering innovative results.
• Extensive experience with modern synthetic techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Excellent command of organic reaction mechanisms and physical organic chemistry principles.
• Strong publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple research priorities in a remote environment.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with computational chemistry tools is a plus.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, a retirement fund, and ample paid time off.
• Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, including access to advanced scientific literature, virtual training programs, and support for attending scientific conferences.
• Join a company that values scientific rigor, innovation, and work-life balance.
• Work remotely from Centurion, Gauteng, ZA or any approved location.
• Be part of a team that is shaping the future of chemical discovery.