Senior Research Scientist - Analytical Chemistry

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Analytical Chemistry for our Mossel Bay facility. This role focuses on developing, validating, and implementing advanced analytical methods to support drug discovery and development, ensuring quality, purity, and stability of compounds.

You will mentor junior analysts, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and stay current with advancements in analytical chemistry while upholding GLP and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
• ≥6 years pharma analytical development experience.
• Hands-on HPLC, LC-MS, GC expertise.
• Strong method validation & regulatory knowledge (FDA/EMA/ICH).
• Experience with small molecules; biologics a plus.
• Proficient in data analysis software and LIMS.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate analytical methods for small molecules and biologics.
• Perform impurity profiling, stability studies, raw material testing.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and method issues.
• Characterize compounds for purity and identity.
• Contribute to regulatory submission documents.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for analytical support.
• Mentor junior analysts and provide training.
• Maintain GLP-compliant records.
• Ensure safety and GLP compliance at Mossel Bay site.
• Stay current with analytical instrumentation advances.

Skills

HPLC

LC-MS

GC

GC-MS

ICP-MS

UV-Vis

Method validation

Regulatory compliance

Data analysis

LIMS

Mentoring

Technical reporting

Education

Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry or related

Tools

LIMS

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in pharmaceutical research and development, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Scientist specializing in Analytical Chemistry for their facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This critical role will focus on developing, validating, and implementing advanced analytical methods to support drug discovery and development programs. You will play a key role in ensuring the quality, purity, and stability of novel therapeutic compounds. The successful candidate will work within a dynamic R&D environment, collaborating with synthetic chemists, formulation scientists, and regulatory affairs specialists. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to life‑saving innovations and advance your career in a stimulating scientific setting. We are committed to scientific excellence and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and validate robust analytical methods for the characterization of small molecules and biologics using techniques such as HPLC, LC-MS, GC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
• Perform impurity profiling, stability studies, and raw material testing in accordance with regulatory guidelines (e.g., ICH).
• Troubleshoot analytical instrumentation and method-related issues.
• Characterize novel chemical entities and intermediates for purity, identity, and quantity.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory submission documents.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to provide analytical support throughout the R&D process.
• Stay current with advancements in analytical chemistry instrumentation and methodologies.
• Mentor junior analytical chemists and provide technical training.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and experimental data.
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and good laboratory practices (GLP) in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in pharmaceutical analytical development.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a variety of analytical techniques, particularly HPLC, LC-MS, and GC.
• Strong understanding of method validation principles and regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA, ICH).
• Experience with small molecule characterization is essential; experience with biologics is a plus.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and LIMS.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in preparing technical reports and documentation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced R&D environment.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences and specialized training courses, are readily available.
• You will be part of a dynamic and collaborative research team dedicated to advancing healthcare through cutting-edge science.
• This role provides the chance to make a meaningful contribution to drug discovery and development within a supportive and innovative environment.