Senior Research Chemist - Analytical Development

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement provisions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Chemist (Analytical Development) for our Mossel Bay facility in the Western Cape, ZA. The role focuses on developing and validating analytical methods for drug-like materials, supporting NPD, process optimization and QA initiatives.

You will work hands-on with HPLC, GC, MS, NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, and KF titration, ensure GLP/GMP adherence, and mentor junior staff in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Analytical Chemistry or related field.
• At least 5 years of analytical method development and validation experience.
• Experience with HPLC, GC and MS is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for materials and products.
• Troubleshoot and resolve method issues to ensure accuracy and precision.
• Adhere to GLP and GMP guidelines in all activities.
• Characterize impurities and degradation products.
• Conduct stability studies and analytical strategy development.
• Transfer methods to QC laboratories and document results.
• Collaborate with synthesis and process teams for analytical support.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Mentor junior analysts.

Skills

Analytical method development

Method validation

GLP/GMP compliance

Data analysis

Education

PhD/ MSc in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC

MS

NMR

FTIR

UV-Vis

KF titration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Chemist with expertise in Analytical Development. This is a critical, on-site position based at our advanced research facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA. You will be responsible for developing, validating, and implementing robust analytical methods to support new product development, process optimization, and quality control initiatives. The role involves extensive hands-on work with sophisticated analytical instrumentation and a deep understanding of chemical principles. You will collaborate closely with synthetic chemists, process engineers, and quality assurance teams to ensure the highest standards of product integrity and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical skills, a meticulous approach to problem-solving, and a proven track record in pharmaceutical or chemical R&D environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate novel analytical methods for raw materials, intermediates, and finished products using techniques such as HPLC, GC, MS, NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, and KF titration.
• Troubleshoot and resolve analytical method issues, ensuring accuracy, precision, and reliability.
• Implement and adhere to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.
• Characterize unknown impurities and degradation products.
• Conduct stability studies and develop appropriate analytical strategies.
• Transfer analytical methods to quality control laboratories.
• Analyze and interpret complex analytical data, preparing comprehensive reports and documentation.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists and process engineers to provide analytical support for R&D projects.
• Stay current with regulatory requirements and industry best practices in analytical chemistry.
• Mentor and guide junior analytical chemists.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in analytical method development and validation within the pharmaceutical or chemical industry.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of analytical instruments, particularly HPLC, GC, and MS.
• Strong understanding of chromatographic techniques, spectroscopy, and wet chemistry methods.
• Thorough knowledge of ICH guidelines and regulatory requirements for analytical validation.
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in statistical software for method validation (e.g., JMP, Minitab).
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to troubleshooting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced R&D setting.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement provisions, and significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. This is an on-site role in our well-equipped facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA. You will be part of a dynamic and collaborative R&D team, working on challenging projects with global impact. We provide a supportive work environment, access to advanced analytical technologies, and encourage continuous learning and skill enhancement. Enjoy a stimulating career path and contribute to the development of innovative chemical solutions. Paid time off and other employee wellness initiatives are also part of our comprehensive package.