Senior Research Chemist - Organic Synthesis

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Research Chemist specializing in Organic Synthesis. You will design and execute multi-step routes, optimize conditions, and characterize compounds for drug discovery.

The role requires a PhD in Organic Chemistry with 5+ years in synthetic chemistry, including asymmetric synthesis and catalysis. Strong analytical skills and collaboration across teams are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• 5+ years post-PhD in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably pharma/biotech.
• Experience with multi-step organic synthesis including asymmetric steps.
• Proficiency with NMR, MS, HPLC, GC for compound characterization.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and team collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute synthetic routes for novel small molecules across disease areas.
• Perform complex organic synthesis, purification, and characterization of target compounds.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity, and scalability.
• Use NMR, MS, HPLC, GC for characterization and purity assessment.
• Troubleshoot synthesis challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and researchers to advance programs.
• Maintain meticulous lab notebooks and document procedures and results.
• Stay updated on advances in synthetic organic chemistry and literature.
• Contribute to patent filings and publications.

Skills

Multi-step synthesis

Asymmetric synthesis

Catalysis

Analytical techniques

Troubleshooting

Scientific writing

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic pharmaceutical research company based in Benoni , Gauteng, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Chemist specializing in Organic Synthesis. This role is integral to the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex multi-step synthesis pathways, optimizing reaction conditions, and characterizing synthesized compounds. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of synthetic organic chemistry, modern analytical techniques, and a passion for driving innovation in drug discovery. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research within a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment in Benoni .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute synthetic routes for novel small molecules targeting various disease areas.
• Perform complex organic synthesis, purification, and characterization of target compounds.
• Optimize reaction conditions to improve yield, purity, and scalability.
• Utilize a range of modern analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, MS, HPLC, GC) for compound characterization and purity assessment.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and other researchers to advance drug discovery programs.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and document experimental procedures and results.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and relevant literature.
• Contribute to the preparation of patent applications and scientific publications.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and proper handling of hazardous materials.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in a pharmaceutical or biotech setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in multi-step organic synthesis, including asymmetric synthesis and catalysis.
• Proficiency in modern spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for compound characterization.
• Strong understanding of reaction mechanisms and ability to troubleshoot synthetic problems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proven track record of successfully synthesizing complex molecules.
• Experience with process chemistry and scale-up is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, a retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional growth through training and conference attendance. This role in Benoni provides a stimulating research environment with access to advanced instrumentation and the chance to make significant contributions to the field of drug discovery. Join a team dedicated to scientific excellence and innovation.