Senior Principal Scientist - Drug Discovery Leader

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Health benefits

Relocation assistance

Research facilities

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to join its Drug Discovery team in Centurion, Gauteng. You will lead target identification and validation, guiding the development of small molecules and biologics while mentoring a team of scientists.

The role emphasizes strategic direction, collaboration across disciplines, and driving innovative therapeutic programs from discovery through early development.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in drug discovery in pharma/biotech.
• Proven ability to lead discovery projects from target validation to lead optimization.
• Strong publication record and conference presentations.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage projects focused on discovery and preclinical development.
• Design and optimize lead compounds using medicinal chemistry expertise.
• Develop and execute in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies.
• Collaborate with biology, DMPK, toxicology and CMC teams.
• Author and present research findings to governance and forums.
• Mentor junior scientists and drive scientific excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry, or related discipline

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to join its Drug Discovery team in Centurion, Gauteng. You will lead target identification and validation, guiding the development of small molecules and biologics while mentoring a team of scientists.

The role emphasizes strategic direction, collaboration across disciplines, and driving innovative therapeutic programs from discovery through early development.