Senior Pharmaceutical Development Scientist (Process Chemistry)

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Pharmaceutical Development Scientist (Process Chemistry) in Paarl, Western Cape. Lead design, optimization, and scale-up of API synthesis routes within a GMP framework.

The role emphasizes robust process development, technology transfer, and collaboration with analytical and manufacturing teams. Strong communication and mentorship are expected in a dynamic R&D environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or related field.
• 5–7 years progressive experience in process chemistry in pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical industry.
• Strong knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry and modern methodologies.
• GMP experience with API manufacturing and regulatory awareness (ICH Q7).

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize synthetic routes for APIs with scalability and cost-efficiency.
• Conduct lab studies to investigate mechanisms and identify critical process parameters.
• Execute process development studies including route scouting and impurity profiling.
• Perform process hazard assessments and implement safety measures.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for monitoring progress and impurity profiling.
• Oversee technology transfer from lab to pilot and manufacturing.
• Collaborate with analytical, formulation, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare detailed process development reports and transfer packages for regulatory submissions.
• Stay updated on new methodologies and regulatory guidelines.
• Provide mentorship to junior scientists.

Skills

Synthetic organic chemistry

Process chemistry

Analytical methods

Hazard analysis

Data analysis

Technical report writing

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

GC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected biopharmaceutical company focused on developing life-changing therapies, is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Development Scientist specializing in Process Chemistry for their facility in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is critical for the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical synthesis routes for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry, process development, and technology transfer within a GMP environment. The scientist will be responsible for designing robust, safe, and cost-effective manufacturing processes for APIs, ensuring they meet stringent quality and regulatory standards. This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to the advancement of novel therapeutics. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to scientific excellence within the beautiful winelands region of Paarl .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize synthetic routes for APIs, focusing on scalability, safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to investigate reaction mechanisms, identify critical process parameters, and troubleshoot synthetic challenges.
• Execute process development studies, including route scouting, reaction optimization, and impurity profiling.
• Perform process hazard assessments and implement appropriate safety measures.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for monitoring reaction progress and product purity.
• Oversee technology transfer of chemical processes from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial manufacturing.
• Collaborate with analytical chemists, formulation scientists, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful process implementation.
• Prepare detailed process development reports, documentation, and technical transfer packages for regulatory submissions.
• Stay abreast of new synthetic methodologies, process technologies, and regulatory guidelines.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in process chemistry within the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical industry.
• Extensive knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and modern synthetic methodologies.
• Proven experience in developing and scaling up complex chemical syntheses for APIs under GMP conditions.
• Strong understanding of analytical techniques for characterization and purity assessment (e.g., NMR, MS, HPLC, GC).
• Experience with process safety evaluations and hazard analysis.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for API manufacturing (e.g., ICH Q7).
• Excellent problem-solving, experimental design, and data analysis skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with experience in technical report writing.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and work effectively within a collaborative team environment.

Benefits

• competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and performance-based bonuses.

We offer significant opportunities for professional growth and development, including participation in scientific conferences and advanced training programs. This role is based in our modern R&D facility in Paarl, Western Cape . Join a company dedicated to innovation and making a real difference in patients' lives through the development of critical medicines.