Principal Scientist - Neuropharmacology

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Generous annual leave

Conference participation

Advanced research facilities

Bonuses and incentives

Retirement annuity

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Principal Scientist in Neuropharmacology to lead drug discovery programs and shape neuroscience strategy. You will design and execute sophisticated in vitro and in vivo studies, mentor junior scientists, and drive translational efforts within state-of-the-art facilities.

The ideal candidate has a PhD with 7–10 years in neuropharmacology, strong leadership, and a passion for developing therapies for neurological disorders.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Biology, or a related discipline.
• 7–10 years of progressive neuropharmacology research with a strong drug discovery focus.
• Experience designing and conducting in vivo models of neurological and psychiatric diseases.
• Proven experience with receptor binding assays, in vitro functional assays, and in vivo efficacy studies.
• Strong understanding of neurobiology and CNS drug mechanisms.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and presentation skills with team management experience.
• Experience with biopharmaceutical development processes and regulatory requirements desirable.
• A passion for advancing treatments for neurological disorders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage drug discovery programs in neuropharmacology from target identification through lead optimization.
• Design, conduct, and interpret complex in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies for target engagement and efficacy.
• Develop and validate novel assays for screening and characterizing neurological drug candidates.
• Investigate disease mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic targets in neurodegeneration and psychiatric disorders.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry and biology teams to advance candidates through the pipeline.
• Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and research staff.
• Analyze and interpret complex pharmacological and behavioral data with rigorous conclusions.
• Contribute to publications, patent applications, and regulatory documents.
• Stay updated on neuroscience advancements and emerging technologies.
• Present research findings and strategic recommendations to management and stakeholders.

Skills

Neuropharmacology

Drug discovery

In vivo models

Receptor binding assays

In vitro functional assays

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in Pharmacology

PhD in Neuroscience

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical research organization based in Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Scientist specializing in Neuropharmacology. This senior role is pivotal in driving the discovery and development of novel therapeutics for neurological disorders. You will be responsible for leading research programs, designing and executing sophisticated in vitro and in vivo studies, and contributing to the strategic direction of the neuroscience portfolio. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of neurobiology and psychopharmacology, coupled with a strong track record in drug discovery and development. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence cutting-edge research and contribute to the development of life-changing treatments for patients suffering from debilitating neurological conditions. We foster a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and collaboration. The successful applicant will work within state-of-the-art facilities alongside a dedicated team of scientists, making significant contributions to advancing neuroscience research. This role requires a profound commitment to scientific excellence and addressing critical unmet medical needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage drug discovery programs within the field of neuropharmacology, from target identification through lead optimization.
• Design, conduct, and interpret complex in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies to assess target engagement and efficacy.
• Develop and validate novel assays for screening and characterizing potential drug candidates for neurological disorders.
• Investigate disease mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic targets in areas such as neurodegeneration, psychiatric disorders, and pain.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and other research teams to advance drug candidates through the development pipeline.
• Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and research associates.
• Analyze and interpret complex pharmacological and behavioral data, ensuring rigorous scientific conclusions.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, patent applications, and regulatory documents.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and emerging technologies in neuroscience and neuropharmacology.
• Present research findings and strategic recommendations to internal management and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Biology, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in neuropharmacology research, with a significant focus on drug discovery in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing and conducting in vivo models of neurological and psychiatric diseases.
• Proven experience with various pharmacological techniques, including receptor binding assays, in vitro functional assays, and in vivo efficacy studies.
• Strong understanding of neurobiology, neurochemistry, and the mechanisms of action of CNS drugs.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and presentation skills, with a successful track record in team management.
• Experience with biopharmaceutical development processes and regulatory requirements is highly desirable.
• A passion for advancing the treatment of neurological disorders.

Benefits

• An annual salary ranging from R to R , commensurate with experience and leadership capabilities.
• Comprehensive medical aid, including coverage for specialists and hospital stays.
• Generous annual leave and company-recognized holidays.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and conference participation.
• Access to advanced research facilities, cutting-edge equipment, and extensive scientific resources.
• Potential for performance-driven bonuses and incentives.
• A highly collaborative and scientifically stimulating work environment.
• Retirement annuity fund with employer contributions.