Research Scientist - Neuropharmacology

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid work arrangements

Modern laboratory facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Research Scientist in Neuropharmacology to join our R&D team in Soweto, Gauteng. You will design and execute in vitro and in vivo studies to explore neurological drug candidates, study mechanisms of action, and develop assays for screening and validation.

The role requires a PhD in Pharmacology/Neuroscience and a strong background in neuropharmacology research, with experience in CNS drug discovery, data analysis, and effective scientific communication.

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Neurobiology, or related life science discipline.
• Proven neuropharmacology research experience with strong CNS drug discovery background.
• Hands-on with in vitro and in vivo models of neurological disorders.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis and interpretation.
• Experience with ELISA, Western blot, immunohistochemistry and HPLC.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid team.
• Strong problem-solving and meticulous attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate pharmacology of novel drug candidates targeting neurological diseases.
• Characterize mechanisms of action and evaluate efficacy and safety.
• Develop and validate new assays for drug screening and target validation.
• Analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions and form hypotheses.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and research teams to advance programs.
• Stay current with scientific literature and advancements in neuropharmacology.
• Prepare detailed reports, contribute to publications, and present findings.

Skills

Neuropharmacology

In vitro

In vivo

Experimental design

Data analysis

ELISA

Western blot

Immunohistochemistry

HPLC

Communication

Independent work

Hybrid teamwork

Education

PhD in Pharmacology/Neuroscience

Tools

ELISA

Western blot

Immunohistochemistry

HPLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a dynamic biopharmaceutical company at the forefront of developing novel therapies for neurological disorders. We are seeking a talented Research Scientist specializing in Neuropharmacology to join our dedicated R&D team in Soweto, Gauteng. This role is integral to our mission of discovering and developing groundbreaking treatments for unmet medical needs. You will conduct rigorous research focused on understanding the neurobiological basis of disease and identifying novel therapeutic targets and drug candidates. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific projects in a collaborative and innovative environment, with flexible hybrid work arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate the pharmacology of novel drug candidates targeting neurological diseases.


• Characterize the mechanisms of action of potential therapeutics and evaluate their efficacy and safety.


• Develop and validate new assays for drug screening and target validation.


• Analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing sound conclusions and formulating hypotheses.


• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and other research teams to advance drug discovery programs.


• Stay current with the latest scientific literature and advancements in neuropharmacology and neuroscience.


• Prepare detailed reports, contribute to publications, and present findings at internal and external scientific meetings.


• Contribute to a positive and productive research culture within the department.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Neurobiology, or a related life science discipline.


• Proven experience in neuropharmacology research, with a strong understanding of CNS drug discovery.


• Hands‑on experience with relevant in vitro (e.g., cell-based assays, receptor binding) and in vivo models of neurological disorders.


• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.


• Experience with various analytical techniques (e.g., ELISA, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, HPLC).


• Excellent written and oral communication skills.


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a hybrid team setting.


• Strong problem‑solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and opportunities for professional growth and development.


• We provide a stimulating research environment with access to modern laboratory facilities and the chance to work on cutting‑edge drug discovery projects.


• Join our innovative team and contribute to improving the lives of patients with neurological conditions.