Principal Research Scientist (Organic Synthesis)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.800.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Career development opportunities

Competitive salary package

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Organic Synthesis for its Bloemfontein R&D center. The role demands leadership of complex synthetic programs, mentorship of chemists, and driving invention of new chemical entities with commercial potential.

The ideal candidate will design multi-step routes, optimize methodologies, and collaborate across process chemistry, materials science, and formulation teams in a state-of-the-art lab environment in Bloemfontein.

Formación

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor staff.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsabilidades

• Design and execute complex multi-step synthetic routes for novel organic compounds.
• Develop and optimize new synthetic methodologies and reaction conditions.
• Lead research projects from conceptualization through to lab demonstration and scale-up feasibility.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using spectroscopic and analytical techniques (NMR, MS, IR, HPLC, GC).
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering their scientific and professional development.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including process chemistry, materials science, and formulation development.
• Stay updated with latest advancements in organic synthesis and related fields.
• Contribute to IP generation through patent applications and publications.

Educación

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Herramientas

NMR

LC–MS

GC–MS

HPLC

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals and advanced materials, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist specializing in Organic Synthesis to join their flagship research and development center in **Bloemfontein**. This is a critical role for an individual with a profound expertise in designing and executing complex synthetic routes for novel organic molecules. You will lead ambitious projects, mentor a team of talented chemists, and contribute significantly to the discovery and development of new chemical entities with high commercial potential. This position offers the opportunity to work in a cutting‑edge laboratory environment equipped with state‑of‑the‑art instrumentation. We are looking for a visionary scientist who thrives on tackling challenging synthetic problems and driving innovation within the chemical sciences sector in **Bloemfontein**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex multi‑step synthetic routes for novel organic compounds.
• Develop and optimize new synthetic methodologies and reaction conditions.
• Lead research projects, from conceptualization through to laboratory demonstration and scale‑up feasibility.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using a wide range of spectroscopic and analytical techniques (NMR, MS, IR, HPLC, GC).
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering their scientific and professional development.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including process chemistry, materials science, and formulation development.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in organic synthesis and related fields.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications and scientific publications.
• Ensure laboratory safety protocols are strictly adhered to and maintain a well‑organized workspace.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of post‑doctoral or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry, with a strong track record of successful research.
• Deep understanding of modern organic synthesis principles, reaction mechanisms, and stereoselective synthesis.
• Expertise in a broad range of synthetic organic reactions and techniques.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization (NMR, LC‑MS, GC‑MS, HPLC).
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor scientific staff.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and creative thinking in synthetic route design.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in presenting complex scientific data.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple research priorities effectively.
• Experience with catalyst development or flow chemistry is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry‑leading salary package, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for career advancement.
• You will work in a stimulating and collaborative research environment in **Bloemfontein**, with access to advanced instrumentation and resources.
• We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and providing employees with continuous learning and development opportunities.
• This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on the development of groundbreaking chemical products.