Remote Lead Drug Discovery Scientist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 3,316,000 - 4,311,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive pay

Stock options

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Leadership training

Remote work

Autonomy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Drug Discovery Scientist to spearhead the company’s remote R&D division. You will define strategy, guide multidisciplinary teams, and drive targets from discovery through early development in a fully remote setting.

The role demands a PhD with 8+ years in drug discovery, leadership excellence, and a track record of strategic science and cross-functional collaboration. Competitive executive compensation and equity are offered.

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field with strong publication record.
• Minimum 8 years in drug discovery within pharma/biotech.
• Proven ability to lead discovery programs and manage scientific teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists in target identification, validation and hit-to-lead programs.
• Develop and refine the drug discovery strategy aligned with therapeutic goals.
• Oversee complex biological assays to assess compound efficacy and mechanism.
• Collaborate with external partners, academia and CROs to advance projects.
• Ensure robust documentation and contribute to IP and regulatory submissions.
• Present progress and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Project leadership

Education

PhD in Pharmacology/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Lead Drug Discovery Scientist to spearhead innovative research initiatives within their remote R&D division. This leadership role is pivotal in defining and executing the company's drug discovery strategy, guiding multidisciplinary teams in the identification and validation of novel therapeutic targets and drug candidates. You will be instrumental in driving projects from conception through to early development, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and innovation. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced scientist to make a profound impact on future medicines while enjoying the flexibility of a fully remote position.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists engaged in target identification, validation, and hit-to-lead optimization programs.
• Develop and refine the company's drug discovery strategy, aligning with therapeutic area goals and market opportunities.
• Oversee the design and execution of complex biological experiments and assays to assess compound efficacy and mechanism of action.
• Collaborate with external partners, academic institutions, and contract research organizations (CROs) to advance discovery projects.
• Ensure rigorous scientific evaluation and documentation of research findings, contributing to intellectual property and regulatory submissions.
• Present research progress and strategic recommendations to senior management and scientific advisory boards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field, with a strong publication record.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in drug discovery within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Demonstrated success in leading discovery projects and managing scientific teams.
• Deep expertise in one or more therapeutic areas and diverse drug discovery modalities.
• Proven ability to design and interpret complex biological assays and pharmacological studies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills, crucial for remote team management.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including a substantial base salary and annual bonus.
• Significant equity or stock options package.
• Comprehensive benefits including premium health insurance and retirement plans.
• Dedicated budget for professional development, including leadership training and conference attendance.
• A fully remote work environment empowering autonomy and flexibility.
• The chance to shape the future of pharmaceutical innovation and patient care.