Remote Senior Synthetic Chemist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remote remuneration

Flexible schedule

Professional development support

Health insurance and wellness programs

Retirement savings plan

Opportunity to work on high-impact R&D

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Synthetic Chemist for a fully remote role. The ideal candidate will design and optimize complex synthesis pathways, leverage computational chemistry, and guide both theorists and experimental teams from a home office.

You will contribute to novel compounds and materials, interpret spectral data remotely, and stay ahead of trends in medicinal chemistry and materials science, all while collaborating with a global virtual team.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry with strong emphasis on synthesis.
• 8+ years in synthetic organic chemistry (academic or industry).
• Expertise in modern synthetic methodologies and stereoselective synthesis.
• Proficiency with computational chemistry tools.
• Ability to work independently and manage remote projects.
• Strong written communication for detailed documentation.

Responsibilities

• Design novel synthetic routes using computation and literature precedent.
• Perform in-silico analysis and predict challenges.
• Guide experimental chemists on procedures remotely.
• Evaluate new methodologies and reagents.
• Analyze spectral data (NMR, MS, IR) remotely to confirm structures.
• Contribute to patents and publications documenting strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams via digital channels.
• Mentor junior chemists in synthetic strategy and theory.
• Stay updated on trends in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry.

Skills

Synthesis design

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Theoretical organic chemistry

Written communication

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

ChemDraw

MarvinSketch

Molecular modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in Scientific Research & Development , is seeking an experienced Senior Synthetic Chemist for a fully remote position. This role is ideal for a seasoned chemist who excels in designing and executing complex synthesis pathways from a remote location. You will be integral to developing novel compounds and materials that drive innovation across various research disciplines. This remote-first opportunity allows you to contribute your expertise without the need for on-site laboratory presence, focusing instead on strategic planning, computational chemistry, and virtual collaboration. We are looking for a highly motivated, self-directed individual with a deep understanding of organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and stereochemistry. Your primary focus will be on theoretical design, route scouting, and providing expert guidance on synthetic challenges encountered by the experimental teams. This position offers the chance to significantly influence the direction of cutting‑edge R&D projects from the comfort of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Design novel synthetic routes for target molecules using computational chemistry and literature precedent.
• Perform in‑silico reaction analysis and predict potential challenges.
• Virtually guide and advise experimental chemists on synthetic procedures and optimization.
• Evaluate and propose new synthetic methodologies and reagents.
• Analyze and interpret spectral data (NMR, MS, IR) remotely to confirm compound structures.
• Contribute to patent applications and scientific publications by documenting synthetic strategies.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams through digital communication channels.
• Mentor junior chemists in synthetic strategy and theoretical organic chemistry.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a related field with a strong emphasis on synthesis.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in synthetic organic chemistry, including significant academic or industry research.
• Extensive knowledge of modern synthetic methodologies, reaction mechanisms, and stereoselective synthesis.
• Proficiency in using computational chemistry software (e.g., ChemDraw, MarvinSketch, molecular modeling packages).
• Excellent theoretical understanding and problem‑solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage complex projects remotely.
• Strong written communication skills for detailed technical documentation and virtual collaboration.
• Proven ability to interpret complex spectral data.
• Experience in medicinal chemistry or materials science is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package for a remote role.
• Flexible work schedule and location.
• Professional development opportunities and support for virtual learning.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact, innovative projects.
• Collaborative and forward‑thinking virtual team environment.
• Performance‑based incentives.