Principal Research Scientist - Organic Chemistry

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Generous leave & holidays

Professional development & conferences

State-of-the-art labs

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Principal Research Scientist (Organic Chemistry) to lead complex multi-step syntheses, develop new methodologies, and elucidate reaction mechanisms. You will mentor staff, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to IP creation in a state-of-the-art lab.

The candidate has a PhD in Organic Chemistry with 10+ years of experience in academia or industry, strong publications/patents, and a proven leadership track in fast-paced R&D settings.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral or industrial research in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Expertise in asymmetric synthesis and organometallic chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of complex multi-step organic synthesis projects.
• Develop novel synthetic methodologies and catalytic systems.
• Investigate and elucidate reaction mechanisms to optimize synthetic pathways.
• Characterise synthesized compounds using NMR, MS, HPLC.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and process engineers to achieve project goals.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot synthetic challenges, and document findings meticulously.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in organic chemistry and related fields through literature review and conference attendance.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in the research group.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation and patent applications.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and best practices.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Catalysis

Reaction mechanisms

Publications/patents

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

Mass spectrometry

HPLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Research Scientist specialising in Organic Chemistry to join their dynamic R&D department in George, Western Cape, ZA . This senior position requires a deep understanding of synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and reaction mechanism, with a proven ability to lead complex research projects from conception through to completion. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, developing new synthetic routes, and contributing to the discovery of novel chemical entities with significant commercial potential. The ideal candidate will possess a strong publication record, a passion for scientific exploration, and the ability to mentor junior researchers. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a well-equipped laboratory, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts, and make a substantial impact on the future of chemical research and development in George, Western Cape, ZA . We are looking for an individual who can think critically, solve challenging synthetic problems, and translate fundamental research into practical applications. A commitment to safety, quality, and scientific excellence is paramount. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and professional growth for all our scientists.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex multi-step organic synthesis projects.
• Develop novel synthetic methodologies and catalytic systems.
• Investigate and elucidate reaction mechanisms to optimize synthetic pathways.
• Characterise synthesized compounds using advanced analytical techniques (NMR, Mass Spectrometry, HPLC, etc.).
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and process engineers to achieve project goals.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot synthetic challenges, and document findings meticulously.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in organic chemistry and related fields through literature review and conference attendance.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in the research group.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation and patent applications.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral or industrial research experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in modern synthetic organic techniques, including asymmetric synthesis and organometallic chemistry.
• Strong track record of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and/or patents.
• Proven experience in leading research projects and mentoring junior scientists.
• Proficiency with advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic characterization methods.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.
• Familiarity with computational chemistry tools is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR, reflecting significant experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
• Opportunities for continued professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the-art synthesis and analytical laboratories.
• Potential for significant career advancement within a leading research organization.
• A dynamic and stimulating work environment in George, Western Cape, ZA .