Principal Research Scientist - Pharmaceutical Development

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 2,200,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Significant bonus potential

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off and parental/退休

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead early drug discovery efforts in a top-tier pharmaceutical development division. Based in Rustenburg, you will mentor cross-functional teams and guide strategy from target validation to candidate screening, shaping a high-impact portfolio.

The role requires a PhD with 10+ years in pharma R&D, deep disease-mechanism knowledge, and a track record of leadership in complex projects.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in pharmacology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related life science.
• 10+ years in pharmaceutical R&D with emphasis on drug discovery and early development.
• Proven ability to lead complex research programs and mentor scientific staff.
• Deep understanding of disease mechanisms and target validation strategies.
• Expertise in various biological assay development and screening technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of complex research projects in drug discovery and development.
• Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to research teams.
• Develop and validate novel assays and platforms for candidate screening.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical teams to advance programs.
• Author and review scientific publications, patents, and regulatory submissions.
• Represent research efforts at internal and external meetings and conferences.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Mentoring

Drug discovery

R&D management

Communication

Education

PhD in Pharmacology/ Biochemistry/ Molecular Biology

Tools

Assay development platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly distinguished Principal Research Scientist to join their prestigious pharmaceutical development division in Rustenburg . This senior role is critical for driving the strategy and execution of early-stage drug discovery and development programs. You will provide expert scientific leadership, mentor cross-functional teams, and contribute significantly to the company's pipeline of innovative therapeutics. This is a unique chance to influence the direction of pharmaceutical research at a high level, working within a highly collaborative and scientifically advanced organization dedicated to improving global health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex research projects focused on pharmaceutical development and drug discovery.
• Provide expert scientific guidance and mentorship to research teams, fostering innovation and scientific excellence.
• Develop and validate novel assays and experimental platforms for candidate screening and characterization.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and clinical teams to advance programs through the pipeline.
• Author and review scientific publications, patents, and regulatory submissions.
• Represent the company's research efforts at internal and external scientific meetings and conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• Extensive experience (10+ years) in pharmaceutical R&D, with a strong focus on drug discovery and early development.
• Proven ability to lead complex research programs and mentor scientific staff effectively.
• Deep understanding of disease mechanisms and target validation strategies.
• Expertise in various biological assay development and screening technologies.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills required for collaboration and leadership in Rustenburg .

Benefits

• A top-tier compensation package including a substantial base salary, significant bonus potential, and stock options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, plus wellness programs.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and retirement savings plans.
• Access to advanced scientific facilities and cutting-edge research technologies.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership in the pharmaceutical industry .