Senior Research Scientist - Molecular Pharmacology

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Conference attendance

Advanced facilities

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Molecular Pharmacology for our Nelspruit laboratory. Lead studies examining drug mechanisms, validate targets, and guide preclinical programs within a collaborative R&D team.

You will mentor junior staff, design innovative assays, and contribute to strategy and scientific publications while advancing drug discovery efforts in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in molecular pharmacology research.
• Proven expertise in in vitro pharmacology techniques including cell-based assays, receptor pharmacology, and enzyme kinetics.
• Strong understanding of drug discovery principles and preclinical drug development.
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills with proficiency in scientific software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to present findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret molecular pharmacology studies to elucidate drug mechanisms and targets.
• Develop and validate novel assays for efficacy, potency, and selectivity in cellular and biochemical models.
• Conduct in vitro pharmacology studies: receptor binding, enzyme kinetics, and cell-based assays.
• Analyze and present data to internal teams; contribute to reports and publications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (chemistry, biology, DMPK) to advance projects.
• Mentor junior scientists and guide research staff in techniques and experimental design.

Skills

Molecular pharmacology

Data analysis

Experiment design

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Pharmacology or related discipline

Tools

Statistical software

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Research Scientist specializing in Molecular Pharmacology to join their dedicated research and development team in Nelspruit . This position is crucial for investigating drug mechanisms of action, identifying novel therapeutic targets, and validating preclinical drug candidates. You will lead experimental projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the strategic direction of research programs aimed at developing innovative treatments for unmet medical needs. This role offers a compelling opportunity to contribute significantly to drug discovery and development within a collaborative and intellectually stimulating laboratory setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret complex molecular pharmacology studies to elucidate drug mechanisms and identify target engagement.
• Develop and validate novel assays for assessing drug efficacy, potency, and selectivity in relevant cellular and biochemical models.
• Conduct in vitro pharmacology studies, including receptor binding assays, enzyme activity assays, and cell-based functional assays.
• Analyze and present experimental data to internal research teams and contribute to the preparation of scientific reports and publications.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including medicinal chemistry, biology, and DMPK, to advance projects.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and research associates in laboratory techniques and experimental design.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in molecular pharmacology research.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of in vitro pharmacology techniques, including cell-based assays, receptor pharmacology, and enzyme kinetics.
• Strong understanding of drug discovery principles and a proven track record of contributing to preclinical drug development.
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills, with proficiency in relevant scientific software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and effectively in Nelspruit .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and company-provided holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including attendance at scientific conferences and training programs.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced instrumentation.
• A collaborative and supportive research environment focused on scientific excellence.