Senior Principal Scientist - Organic Synthesis Innovator

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits (health, retire

Generous annual leave

Continuous professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to lead and execute advanced synthetic organic chemistry projects, developing novel compounds for next-generation materials and therapeutics. You will design multi-step routes, supervise junior chemists, and collaborate with analytical and formulation teams, ensuring GLP-compliant research and robust scientific reporting.

PhD required with 8+ years experience, strong publication/patent record, and ability to work in a

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in industrial R&D.
• Expertise in a wide range of organic reactions including asymmetric synthesis, organometallic chemistry, and heterocycle synthesis.
• Ability to design and execute complex syntheses independently; proficient in spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a creative approach to synthetic challenges.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with a track record of publications or patents.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists is essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Legally authorized to work in South Africa and willing to relocate to Centurion.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and synthesis of complex organic molecules using modern techniques.
• Develop and optimize multi-step synthetic routes for target compounds.
• Conduct literature reviews to identify novel strategies and assess feasibility.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using NMR, MS, HPLC, IR and GC.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and devise innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with analytical, process and formulation scientists.
• Prepare research reports, patent applications, and scientific publications.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists, fostering their development.
• Ensure GLP and safety compliance in Centurion facility.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Independent design

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

HPLC

GC

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to lead and execute advanced synthetic organic chemistry projects, developing novel compounds for next-generation materials and therapeutics. You will design multi-step routes, supervise junior chemists, and collaborate with analytical and formulation teams, ensuring GLP-compliant research and robust scientific reporting.

PhD required with 8+ years experience, strong publication/patent record, and ability to work in a