Senior Computational Chemist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary/bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement plan with match

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Computational Chemist to drive drug discovery using quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, docking and QSAR.

You will design novel molecules, predict properties, and guide synthesis while collaborating with chemists and biologists in a hybrid research setting.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum 5 years post-PhD or industry experience in computational chemistry.
• Experience with QM, MD, docking, QSAR and drug discovery.
• Proficiency with Schrodinger Suite, MOE, Gaussian, AMBER.
• Strong programming skills in Python or Perl.

Responsibilities

• Apply QM, MD, docking, and QSAR to support drug discovery programs.
• Design novel molecules and predict properties to guide synthesis.
• Develop and validate computational workflows.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists.
• Mentor junior computational chemists.

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in pharmaceutical research and development, is seeking a talented Senior Computational Chemist to join their advanced research division based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role will focus on applying computational chemistry techniques to drive drug discovery programs. You will work closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to design novel molecules, predict their properties, and guide synthetic efforts. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and cheminformatics, coupled with practical experience in using computational modeling software. You will contribute to key projects by providing in-depth computational insights and driving innovation in molecular design. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking research team in the vibrant scientific hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape. Your contributions will directly impact the development of new therapies. We are looking for someone who can blend rigorous scientific methodology with creative problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply computational chemistry methods (QM, MD, docking, QSAR) to support drug discovery projects.
• Design and virtually screen novel small molecules with desired pharmacological properties.
• Predict molecular properties such as ADMET, reactivity, and binding affinity.
• Develop and validate computational models and workflows.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists to optimize lead compounds and design novel synthetic targets.
• Analyze and interpret complex computational results, presenting findings to project teams.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in computational chemistry and cheminformatics.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of computational chemistry databases and tools.
• Mentor junior computational chemists and support their scientific growth.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and publications detailing computational findings.

Requirements

• PhD in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, Cheminformatics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in computational chemistry, preferably in drug discovery.
• Proven expertise in quantum mechanical calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and docking studies.
• Proficiency with computational chemistry software packages (e.g., Schrodinger Suite, MOE, Gaussian, AMBER).
• Strong knowledge of cheminformatics, QSAR, and virtual screening methodologies.
• Experience in programming languages such as Python or Perl for scripting and data analysis.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid research environment, collaborating with both on-site and remote team members.
• Demonstrated experience in contributing to drug discovery programs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and training.
• Access to high-performance computing resources and cutting-edge software.
• Collaborative and dynamic research environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Paid time off and public holidays.