Senior Drug Discovery Scientist — Impactful R&D Lead

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist in Cape Town, Western Cape, to lead drug discovery and preclinical work within a dynamic team. You will design in vitro and in vivo studies, validate analytical methods, and contribute to regulatory submissions while mentoring junior staff.

The role demands a PhD and 5+ years of pharma research, with strong PK/PD knowledge and data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field.
• 5+ years post-doctoral or industry research experience in drug discovery.
• Experience with molecular biology, cell culture and bioassays.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex research projects focused on drug discovery and development.
• Design and conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate efficacy and safety.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and generate reports.
• Develop analytical methods for characterizing pharmaceutical compounds.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor junior staff.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Bioassays

Education

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field

Tools

Molecular biology

Cell culture

Bioassays

Job description

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist in Cape Town, Western Cape, to lead drug discovery and preclinical work within a dynamic team. You will design in vitro and in vivo studies, validate analytical methods, and contribute to regulatory submissions while mentoring junior staff.

The role demands a PhD and 5+ years of pharma research, with strong PK/PD knowledge and data analysis skills.