Senior Analytical Scientist - Pharmaceutical Analysis

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Hybrid work model

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Analytical Scientist for a pharmaceutical R&D company in East London, Eastern Cape. You will lead analytical projects, develop and validate methods (HPLC, MS, GC), and ensure GMP compliance.

Hybrid work combines in‑lab experimentation with remote data analysis. Requirements include a Master’s or PhD in Analytical Chemistry and 6+ years in pharmaceutical analysis, plus strong communication and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in pharmaceutical analytical development and testing.
• Extensive hands-on experience with analytical techniques (HPLC, MS).
• Thorough understanding of GMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical analysis.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with clear documentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and transfer analytical methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and drug products.
• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing per GMP.
• Operate and maintain advanced instrumentation (HPLC, UPLC, GC, MS, etc).
• Analyze data, interpret results, and prepare reports.
• Troubleshoot methods and instrumentation issues.
• Mentor junior analytical scientists and collaborate with R&D, QA, and Regulatory Affairs.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Pharmaceutical analysis

HPLC

Mass spectrometry

GMP/ICH

Data analysis

Technical communication

Team collaboration

Statistical software

Education

Master’s or PhD in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

UPLC

GC

MS

NMR

FTIR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent pharmaceutical research and development company, is seeking a Senior Analytical Scientist to lead critical projects in pharmaceutical analysis. This role is vital for ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of our drug products through rigorous analytical testing and method development. Located in the scenic coastal city of East London, Eastern Cape , we offer a flexible hybrid work environment that encourages both in-lab experimentation and remote data analysis. You will be responsible for developing, validating, and implementing advanced analytical methods using techniques such as HPLC, GC, MS, and spectroscopy. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, and a deep understanding of regulatory guidelines, with a passion for maintaining the highest standards of pharmaceutical quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and transfer analytical methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished drug products.
• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing according to established protocols and GMP requirements.
• Operate and maintain advanced analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, UPLC, GC, MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR).
• Analyze complex analytical data, interpret results, and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Troubleshoot analytical methods and instrumentation issues.
• Contribute to the investigation of Out-of-Specification (OOS) results and deviations.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical regulations.
• Mentor junior analytical scientists and support their technical development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Quality Control, and Regulatory Affairs.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD degree in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in pharmaceutical analytical development and testing.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with a variety of analytical techniques, particularly HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• Thorough understanding of GMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical analysis.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with strong problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document work clearly and concisely.
• Experience working in a hybrid or collaborative team environment.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis software is desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Employees in East London, Eastern Cape have access to a well‑equipped laboratory and opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement.
• Our hybrid work model supports a healthy work‑life balance.
• Join our dedicated team to play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products.