Senior Computational Chemist - Remote First

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first position

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Computational Chemist for a fully remote, remote-first role. You will design and optimize chemical processes and materials using advanced computational modeling and simulation techniques, spanning molecular modeling, reaction pathway analysis, and materials property prediction.

You will mentor junior researchers, contribute to publications and patents, and collaborate with a globally distributed team to advance R&D objectives from your home workspace.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in computational chemistry.
• Expertise in quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and statistical mechanics.
• Proficiency with major computational chemistry software packages and scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply computational chemistry methods to predict molecular properties, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Utilize molecular modeling software for QM/MM calculations and simulations.
• Perform virtual screening and design of novel chemical compounds and materials.
• Analyze and interpret complex simulation data, generating actionable insights for R&D teams.
• Collaborate with experimental chemists and engineers across different time zones.
• Develop and maintain computational workflows and databases.
• Stay current with advancements in computational chemistry and cheminformatics.
• Contribute to preparation of technical reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior computational chemists and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Python

Bash

Quantum mechanics

Molecular dynamics

Statistical mechanics

Remote work

Communication

Project management

Education

PhD in Computational Chemistry

Tools

Gaussian

Schrodinger

AMBER

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in chemical research and development, is looking for a Senior Computational Chemist to join their pioneering team. This is a fully remote, remote-first position, requiring a highly self-motivated individual to contribute to the design and optimization of chemical processes and materials using advanced computational modeling and simulation techniques. You will work on diverse projects, including molecular modeling, reaction pathway analysis, materials property prediction, and process simulation. This role offers the unique opportunity to work with a globally dispersed team and influence research directions from the convenience of your own workspace. Our client is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and productive remote environment, making this an ideal position for an experienced professional seeking flexibility and impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply computational chemistry methods to predict molecular properties, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Utilize molecular modeling software (e.g., Gaussian, Schrodinger, AMBER) for QM/MM calculations and simulations.
• Perform virtual screening and design of novel chemical compounds and materials.
• Analyze and interpret complex simulation data, generating actionable insights for R&D teams.
• Collaborate closely with experimental chemists and engineers across different time zones.
• Develop and maintain computational workflows and databases.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, and related fields.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior computational chemists and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of industry or academic experience in computational chemistry.
• Expertise in quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and statistical mechanics.
• Proficiency with major computational chemistry software packages and scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
• Strong understanding of chemical principles and their application to materials and process design.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and manage projects remotely.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for a remote-first team.
• Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments is highly desirable.

Benefits

• This remote-first position offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Our client provides substantial support for professional development, including access to online training, virtual conferences, and cutting-edge software.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility while contributing to impactful chemical research and development.
• Join a forward-thinking organization that embraces remote work innovation.