Principal Research Scientist - Organic Chemistry

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits (health, retire

Generous annual leave

Continuous professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to lead and execute advanced synthetic organic chemistry projects, developing novel compounds for next-generation materials and therapeutics. You will design multi-step routes, supervise junior chemists, and collaborate with analytical and formulation teams, ensuring GLP-compliant research and robust scientific reporting.

PhD required with 8+ years experience, strong publication/patent record, and ability to work in a

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in industrial R&D.
• Expertise in a wide range of organic reactions including asymmetric synthesis, organometallic chemistry, and heterocycle synthesis.
• Ability to design and execute complex syntheses independently; proficient in spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a creative approach to synthetic challenges.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with a track record of publications or patents.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists is essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Legally authorized to work in South Africa and willing to relocate to Centurion.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and synthesis of complex organic molecules using modern techniques.
• Develop and optimize multi-step synthetic routes for target compounds.
• Conduct literature reviews to identify novel strategies and assess feasibility.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using NMR, MS, HPLC, IR and GC.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and devise innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with analytical, process and formulation scientists.
• Prepare research reports, patent applications, and scientific publications.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering their development.
• Ensure GLP and safety compliance in Centurion facility.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Independent design

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

GC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist with expertise in Organic Chemistry to join their state-of-the-art research facility in Centurion, Gauteng. This critical role will involve leading and executing advanced synthetic chemistry projects aimed at discovering and developing novel compounds. As a Principal Scientist, you will be at the forefront of innovation, contributing significantly to the company's pipeline and scientific reputation. You will work within a highly collaborative R&D environment, engaging with cross-functional teams to translate complex chemical challenges into tangible solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding combined with extensive practical experience in modern synthetic methodologies. This position is essential for driving our client's strategic goals in developing next-generation materials and therapeutics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and synthesis of complex organic molecules using modern synthetic techniques.
• Develop and optimize multi-step synthetic routes for target compounds.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews to identify novel synthetic strategies and assess feasibility.
• Perform rigorous characterization of synthesized compounds using techniques such as NMR, MS, IR, and HPLC.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and devise innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with analytical chemists, process chemists, and formulation scientists.
• Prepare detailed research reports, patent applications, and scientific publications.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering their scientific and technical development.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and good laboratory practices (GLP) within the Centurion, Gauteng facility.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably within an industrial R&D setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of organic reactions, including asymmetric synthesis, organometallic chemistry, and heterocycle synthesis.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization (NMR, MS, HPLC, GC).Proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic sequences independently.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a creative approach to synthetic challenges.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications or patents.
• Experience in mentoring junior scientists is essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to the Centurion, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as premium health insurance, a robust retirement fund, and generous annual leave.
• Continuous professional development is encouraged through workshops, conferences, and advanced training opportunities.
• The company promotes a culture of innovation and scientific excellence, providing access to cutting-edge instrumentation and resources.
• Join a respected organization where your expertise in organic chemistry will drive significant scientific advancements.