Senior Research Chemist - Synthetic Organic

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,494,000 - 1,992,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Chemist specializing in Synthetic Organic Chemistry for a fully remote role. The successful candidate will design and execute complex synthetic routes, characterize new compounds, and contribute to publications and patents from a home office.

This position emphasizes autonomy, self‑management, and clear remote communication. You will work with a distributed team, advancing novel chemical entities while maintaining rigorous safety and documentation

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or closely related field.
• ≥5 years post‑doctoral or industrial research in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Experience planning and executing multi‑step organic syntheses.
• Proficiency with modern synthetic techniques and reaction mechanisms.
• Hands‑on spectroscopic and chromatographic characterization methods.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and a creative approach to synthesis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and manage remote projects.
• Familiarity with chemical drawing and modeling software.
• Home laboratory setup or willingness to establish one for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules using modern synthetic methodologies.
• Develop and optimize efficient synthetic routes for target compounds, troubleshooting challenges as they arise.
• Characterize synthesized compounds thoroughly using spectroscopic techniques (NMR, MS, IR) and chromatographic methods (HPLC, GC).
• Conduct literature searches to identify potential synthetic strategies and relevant research.
• Collaborate effectively with remote colleagues, including medicinal chemists and process chemists, through virtual meetings and shared platforms.
• Prepare detailed experimental reports, contribute to patent applications, and author scientific publications.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and documentation in line with company standards.
• Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation in synthetic chemistry.
• Ensure all research activities are conducted with the highest regard for safety and compliance.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Multi-step synthesis

Spectroscopy

Chromatography

Remote collaboration

Communication

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

ChemDraw

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a talented Senior Research Chemist with a specialization in Synthetic Organic Chemistry to join their innovative team on a fully remote basis. This role is ideal for a highly motivated scientist eager to contribute to the discovery and development of novel chemical entities. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex synthetic routes, characterizing new compounds, and playing a key role in advancing our client's research objectives. The successful candidate will thrive in a remote work environment, demonstrating strong self-management, excellent communication skills, and a passion for cutting‑edge chemistry. This position offers significant autonomy and the chance to contribute to impactful projects without the need for a physical office presence. We are committed to fostering scientific excellence and providing remote employees with the resources and support they need to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel organic molecules using a wide range of modern synthetic methodologies.
• Develop and optimize efficient synthetic routes for target compounds, troubleshooting challenges as they arise.
• Characterize synthesized compounds thoroughly using spectroscopic techniques (NMR, MS, IR) and chromatographic methods (HPLC, GC).
• Conduct literature searches to identify potential synthetic strategies and relevant research.
• Collaborate effectively with remote colleagues, including medicinal chemists and process chemists, through virtual meetings and shared platforms.
• Prepare detailed experimental reports, contribute to patent applications, and author scientific publications.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and documentation in line with company standards.
• Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation in synthetic chemistry.
• Ensure all research activities are conducted with the highest regard for safety and compliance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral or industrial research experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Demonstrated expertise in planning and executing multi‑step organic syntheses.
• Proficiency with modern synthetic techniques and a broad knowledge of reaction mechanisms.
• Hands‑on experience with common spectroscopic and chromatographic characterization methods.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities and a creative approach to chemical synthesis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for remote collaboration.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage research projects effectively from a remote location.
• Familiarity with chemical drawing and modeling software.
• Must have a suitable home laboratory setup or be willing to establish one for remote work.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers a competitive salary, potential for performance‑based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This includes excellent health insurance, a robust retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off.
• We provide a flexible work schedule, allowing you to manage your professional and personal life effectively.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including online courses and virtual conference attendance, are supported.

Join a forward‑thinking organization where your expertise in synthetic organic chemistry will drive innovation and discovery, all from the convenience of your home office.