Senior Computational Chemist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision insurance

Retirement contributions

Hybrid work arrangement in Benoni

Professional development opportunities

Paid time off

Performance bonuses

Stimulating research environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Computational Chemist to join our pharmaceutical research team in Benoni, Gauteng. The role blends drug discovery responsibilities with advanced computational methods to design and optimize novel candidates using docking, QSAR, and molecular modeling in a hybrid work setting.

You will collaborate with synthetic chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to translate data into actionable insights, maintain computational infrastructure, and contribute to

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry, Cheminformatics, Medicinal Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in computational chemistry within pharma/biotech.
• Proficiency with Schrödinger Suite, MOE, AutoDock, GROMACS.
• Strong understanding of molecular mechanics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics.
• Excellent programming skills (Python) for scripting and data analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular modeling, docking, and virtual screening studies to identify potential drug candidates.
• Develop and apply QSAR models to guide lead optimization efforts.
• Design novel chemical entities using computational tools and cheminformatics approaches.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists to plan synthetic routes for computationally designed molecules.
• Analyze and interpret complex data from computational simulations and experimental assays.
• Work closely with biologists and pharmacologists to understand target biology and drug mechanisms.
• Maintain and develop computational chemistry infrastructure and databases.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in computational chemistry and cheminformatics.
• Contribute to project strategy, scientific publications, and patent applications.
• Effectively communicate complex computational results to multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Python

Analytical thinking

Communication

Independent work

Education

PhD in Computational Chemistry

Tools

Schrödinger Suite

MOE

AutoDock

GROMACS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering pharmaceutical research company, is seeking an experienced Senior Computational Chemist to join their innovative drug discovery team. This role will be based at our modern research facility in Benoni, Gauteng , with a hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility. You will play a pivotal role in designing and optimizing novel drug candidates by leveraging advanced computational chemistry techniques, including molecular modeling, virtual screening, and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemistry and deep expertise in applying computational methods to solve complex problems in medicinal chemistry. You will collaborate closely with synthetic chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to accelerate the identification and development of new therapeutics. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge drug discovery programs and make a tangible impact on human health. We are looking for a creative and analytical scientist who is passionate about applying computational approaches to drive pharmaceutical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform molecular modeling, docking, and virtual screening studies to identify potential drug candidates.
• Develop and apply QSAR models to guide lead optimization efforts.
• Design novel chemical entities using computational tools and cheminformatics approaches.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists to plan synthetic routes for computationally designed molecules.
• Analyze and interpret complex data from computational simulations and experimental assays.
• Work closely with biologists and pharmacologists to understand target biology and drug mechanisms.
• Maintain and develop computational chemistry infrastructure and databases.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in computational chemistry and cheminformatics.
• Contribute to project strategy, scientific publications, and patent applications.
• Effectively communicate complex computational results to multidisciplinary teams.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Cheminformatics, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in computational chemistry within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry.
• Proficiency with computational chemistry software packages (e.g., Schrödinger Suite, MOE, AutoDock, GROMACS).
• Strong understanding of molecular mechanics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics.
• Experience with cheminformatics toolkits and databases.
• Familiarity with QSAR, virtual screening, and ADMET prediction methods.
• Excellent programming skills (e.g., Python) for scripting and data analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision insurance, and retirement contributions.
• This hybrid role, based in Benoni, Gauteng , provides an excellent work-life balance with flexible working arrangements.
• You will have access to state-of-the-art computational resources and collaborate with leading scientists in the field.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are abundant.
• We offer paid time off, performance bonuses, and a stimulating research environment.
• Join our innovative team and contribute to the future of medicine.