Principal Research Scientist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative drug discovery programs at their Randburg, Gauteng center. You will guide multidisciplinary teams, shape strategic directions, and advance candidates from validation through preclinical development.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 10+ years in drug discovery, exceptional leadership, and collaboration across chemistry, biology, pharmacology, and toxicology. Significant impact on patient outcomes is anticipated.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology or related life sciences with at least 10 years in drug discovery.
• Proven success in advancing candidates from discovery to early development.
• Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead drug discovery projects from target identification and validation to lead optimization and preclinical candidate selection.
• Design and implement cutting-edge research strategies to address unmet medical needs across various therapeutic areas.
• Mentor scientists and foster a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and collaboration.
• Collaborate closely with chemistry, biology, pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical development teams.
• Oversee experimental design, data interpretation, and the generation of high-quality scientific data.
• Present research findings and strategic plans to senior management and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to IP development and scientific publications.
• Stay abreast of latest scientific advancements and competitive landscape in drug discovery.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Ensure compliance with ethical, regulatory, and safety standards.

Skills

Drug discovery leadership

Target validation

Disease biology expertise

Team leadership

Strategic planning

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmacology or life sciences

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-leading pharmaceutical company, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative drug discovery programs from their state-of-the-art research center in **Randburg, Gauteng**. This senior role is critical for identifying and advancing novel therapeutic candidates from target validation through preclinical development. The Principal Research Scientist will guide multidisciplinary teams, set strategic research direction, and contribute scientific expertise across various therapeutic areas. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of disease biology, a proven track record in successful drug discovery, and exceptional leadership skills. The position offers a unique opportunity to make a profound impact on patient lives and shape the future of medicine within a dynamic and collaborative environment in **Randburg, Gauteng**. Join a company committed to scientific excellence and breakthrough innovation in healthcare.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct drug discovery projects, from target identification and validation to lead optimization and preclinical candidate selection.
• Design and implement cutting-edge research strategies to address unmet medical needs across various therapeutic areas.
• Guide and mentor a team of scientists, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and collaboration.
• Collaborate closely with experts in chemistry, biology, pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical development.
• Oversee experimental design, data interpretation, and the generation of high-quality scientific data.
• Present research findings and strategic plans to senior management and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and scientific publications.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and competitive landscape in drug discovery.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all ethical, regulatory, and safety standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in drug discovery within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in bringing drug candidates from discovery through to early clinical development.
• Extensive knowledge of disease biology, target validation strategies, and various modalities of drug discovery (small molecules, biologics).
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex, multidisciplinary research projects.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills, with experience presenting to diverse audiences.
• Strong networking and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships across departments and organizations.
• Experience with managing external research collaborations is a plus.
• A passion for scientific innovation and delivering transformative medicines.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, a significant annual bonus, and long-term incentive awards.
• The comprehensive benefits program includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with company matching, and extensive paid time off.
• We provide unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement.
• The **Randburg, Gauteng** location boasts state-of-the-art research facilities within a vibrant scientific community.
• We are dedicated to fostering a culture that rewards innovation and values employee well-being.