Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Career development opportunities

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical employer in Vereeniging, Gauteng is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to spearhead drug discovery projects from target identification through preclinical candidate selection. You will mentor junior researchers and shape R&D strategy in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

The role emphasizes leading experiments, developing assays, and presenting findings to cross-functional teams, with a strong focus on scientific excellence and compliance.

Qualifications

• PhD required in pharmacology/biochemistry/molecular biology or related life science field.
• 5–7 years post-doctoral or industry research experience in pharma/biotech.
• Expertise in a specific therapeutic area (e.g., oncology/immunology/CNS).
• Experience with various in vitro and in vivo experimental models.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present complex scientific information.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
• Experience with laboratory automation and high-throughput screening is a plus.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data management tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret complex experiments related to drug discovery and development.
• Develop and optimize novel assays and methodologies for evaluating compound efficacy and safety.
• Analyze and present research findings to internal teams, management, and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology teams.
• Stay updated on scientific literature and trends in relevant therapeutic areas.
• Manage research projects with timely delivery and budget adherence.
• Contribute to research reports, manuscripts, and patent applications.

Skills

Therapeutic area expertise

In vitro & in vivo models

Analytical thinking

Scientific communication

Lab automation / high-throughput

Statistical software

Education

PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related life science

Tools

Laboratory automation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in pharmaceutical innovation, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Research Scientist to join their dynamic team in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This critical role involves spearheading cutting-edge research and development projects aimed at discovering and advancing novel therapeutic agents. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the entire drug discovery lifecycle, from target identification and validation through to preclinical candidate selection. We are looking for an individual with a strong scientific acumen, a passion for groundbreaking research, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on patient lives by contributing to the development of life-saving medicines. The role requires a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences and a proven track record in research methodologies. As a Senior Scientist, you will be expected to lead by example, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to the strategic direction of the R&D department.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret complex experiments related to drug discovery and development.
• Develop and optimize new assays and methodologies for evaluating compound efficacy and safety.
• Analyze and present research findings to internal teams, management, and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the scientific literature and emerging trends in relevant therapeutic areas.
• Manage research projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget.
• Contribute to the preparation of research reports, manuscripts, and patent applications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, regulatory, and ethical guidelines.
• Mentor and guide junior research scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.

Requirements

• PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sector.
• Proven expertise in a specific therapeutic area (e.g., oncology, immunology, CNS).
• Extensive experience with various in vitro and in vivo experimental models.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous approach to data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex scientific information.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in Vereeniging, Gauteng .
• Experience with laboratory automation and high-throughput screening techniques is a plus.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data management tools.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement. You will be part of a stimulating work environment that values innovation and employee growth, located in the vibrant region of Vereeniging, Gauteng . We provide a supportive culture where your contributions are recognized and rewarded, along with access to state-of-the-art research facilities. This role offers the chance to work on truly impactful projects and collaborate with world-class scientists, contributing directly to the future of medicine.