Principal Scientist - Synthetic Organic Chemistry

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900.000 - 1.300.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Hybrid work in Stellenbosch

Medical and retirement plans

Career development opportunities

Wellness programs

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks a Principal Scientist to lead synthetic organic chemistry initiatives within a pharmaceutical R&D setting. The role blends lab-focused execution with strategic planning, mentoring a team of chemists, and guiding drug discovery programs.

You will design and optimize multi-step syntheses, develop scalable routes, and contribute to IP through publications and filings, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifikationen

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with emphasis on synthetic chemistry.
• 8+ years of post-PhD experience in synthetic organic chemistry, pharma preferred.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic routes for drug candidates.
• Strong leadership, communication and mentoring abilities.

Aufgaben

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules and drug candidates using modern synthetic methodologies.
• Develop and optimize scalable, cost-efficient synthetic routes for target molecules.
• Conduct literature searches and apply insights to solve synthetic challenges.
• Characterize compounds using NMR, MS, HPLC, and related analytical techniques.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Lead research projects, set priorities, and manage timelines.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Communication

Strategic thinking

Ausbildung

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

Flow chemistry

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a highly innovative pharmaceutical research and development company, is looking for an exceptional Principal Scientist to lead synthetic organic chemistry initiatives. This senior role is based at our state-of-the-art research center in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA, operating under a Hybrid work model that balances focused lab work with strategic remote planning and analysis. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex multi-step syntheses of novel drug candidates, developing efficient and scalable synthetic routes, and contributing significantly to our drug discovery pipeline. This position requires deep expertise in modern synthetic methodologies, a strong understanding of medicinal chemistry principles, and the ability to guide and mentor a team of talented chemists. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of innovation and success in synthetic organic chemistry, ideally within the pharmaceutical sector. Join us to make a significant contribution to the development of life-changing therapies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules and drug candidates using cutting-edge synthetic methodologies.
• Develop and optimize efficient, scalable, and cost-effective synthetic routes for target molecules.
• Conduct thorough literature searches and apply knowledge to solve synthetic challenges.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using advanced analytical techniques (NMR, MS, HPLC, etc.).
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Lead research projects, set priorities, and manage timelines effectively.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior synthetic chemists.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property through patent filings.
• Ensure a safe laboratory environment and adherence to all regulatory and company policies.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a related field, with a strong emphasis on synthetic organic chemistry.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant post-doctoral or industrial experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of modern synthetic organic reactions and techniques.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic strategies for challenging targets.
• Experience with modern analytical techniques for compound characterization.
• Strong understanding of medicinal chemistry principles and drug discovery processes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage projects and mentor junior scientists.
• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or patent filings.
• Experience with flow chemistry or catalysis is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and retirement plans, and significant opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• This Hybrid role is based in our modern research facility in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA.
• You will work in a dynamic, collaborative, and innovative environment, with access to cutting-edge technologies and resources.
• We are committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and provide ample opportunities for you to expand your expertise and make a lasting impact on human health.
• Enjoy generous paid time off and extensive employee wellness programs designed to support your overall well-being.