Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist

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

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in the pharmaceutical industry, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to join their dynamic team in Cape Town, Western Cape. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and development initiatives, focusing on novel therapeutic agents. You will be instrumental in driving projects from conceptualization through to preclinical stages, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of experts. This position is ideal for a scientist passionate about making a tangible impact on global health and looking for a challenging yet rewarding career path within a reputable organization. The work environment is fast-paced and encourages scientific curiosity and rigorous investigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex research projects focused on drug discovery and development.
• Design and conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential drug candidates.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive reports.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods for characterizing pharmaceutical compounds.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in pharmaceutical research.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory submissions and patent applications.
• Mentor junior research staff and provide scientific guidance.
• Ensure all research activities are conducted in compliance with company policies and ethical standards.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and propose innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in drug discovery and development.
• Proven track record of successfully managing research projects and delivering high-quality results.
• Extensive experience with various laboratory techniques, including molecular biology, cell culture, and bioassays.
• Strong understanding of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data interpretation tools.