Research Associate - Chemical Synthesis

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

On-the-job training

Diverse projects

Stable environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Research Associate to support their Chemical Synthesis laboratory in Mossel Bay. This role focuses on bench-scale synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel compounds under the guidance of senior scientists.

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in organic chemistry, hands-on experience with standard purification and analytical methods, and a commitment to safety and meticulous lab notebooks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with purification and characterization methods for organic compounds.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and chemical handling procedures.
• Ability to follow detailed experimental procedures and work effectively in a team.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail in Mossel Bay.

Responsibilities

• Perform multi-step organic synthesis reactions according to established protocols and experimental designs.
• Purify reaction products using column chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using NMR, LC-MS, and IR spectroscopy.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and accurately record procedures and results.
• Assist in procurement and inventory management of laboratory chemicals and supplies.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and procedures.

Skills

Organic chemistry

Bench-scale synthesis

Analytical skills

Lab notebooks

Safety minded

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Organic/Synthetic Chemistry

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

LC-MS

IR spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Research Associate to support their Chemical Synthesis laboratory in Mossel Bay. This role is essential for the successful execution of synthetic organic chemistry projects, contributing to the development of new chemical entities for various applications. You will work under the guidance of senior scientists, performing bench-scale synthesis, purification, and characterization of novel compounds. The position requires a strong foundation in organic chemistry principles and hands-on laboratory experience, with a commitment to quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform multi-step organic synthesis reactions according to established protocols and experimental designs.
• Purify reaction products using techniques such as column chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical methods including NMR, LC-MS, and IR spectroscopy.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and accurately record experimental procedures and results.
• Assist in the procurement and inventory management of laboratory chemicals and supplies.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, or a related field.
• Proven hands‑on experience in synthetic organic chemistry laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with common purification and characterization methods for organic compounds.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and chemical handling procedures.
• Ability to follow detailed experimental procedures and work effectively in a team.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting experimental work conducted in Mossel Bay.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for on‑the‑job training and skill development in advanced synthesis techniques.
• Exposure to diverse research projects within a supportive laboratory environment.
• Contribution to impactful scientific advancements.
• A stable and secure work environment in Mossel Bay.