Senior Research Scientist - Organic Chemistry

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental & vision insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Laboratory access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Organic Chemistry to lead synthetic chemistry projects in Stellenbosch. The role focuses on designing routes, improving yields, and characterizing new chemical matter for potential therapeutic applications.

You will work with a multidisciplinary team, advance drug discovery programs, and contribute to state-of-the-art laboratories in the Western Cape region.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic or Medicinal Chemistry or closely related field
• Minimum 5 years postdoctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry
• Proven expertise in modern synthetic methodologies and stereoselective synthesis
• Experience with purification techniques like column chromatography and recrystallization
• Strong analytical spectroscopy and chromatography skills

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex synthetic routes for novel organic molecules and targets
• Optimize procedures to improve yield, purity and scalability
• Characterize compounds using NMR, MS, HPLC and IR techniques
• Conduct literature and patent analyses to identify synthetic strategies
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and formulation scientists
• Maintain accurate experimental records and follow safety standards in Stellenbosch

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

5+ years postdoc/industry in synthetic organic chemistry

Tools

Column chromatography

Recrystallization

NMR

MS

HPLC

IR spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Senior Research Scientist specializing in Organic Chemistry to join their esteemed research team in Stellenbosch . This position is vital for driving forward the synthesis and characterization of novel chemical entities for potential therapeutic applications. You will lead synthetic chemistry projects, develop efficient synthetic routes, and contribute to the discovery of new chemical matter. This role offers a compelling opportunity to work in a leading research institution, contribute to cutting-edge medicinal chemistry, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team dedicated to scientific excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex synthetic routes for the preparation of novel organic molecules, intermediates, and target compounds.
• Optimize existing synthetic procedures to improve yield, purity, and scalability.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using a range of analytical techniques, including NMR, MS, HPLC, and IR spectroscopy.
• Conduct literature searches and patent analyses to identify synthetic strategies and potential intellectual property.
• Collaborate effectively with medicinal chemists, biologists, and formulation scientists to advance drug discovery programs.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and maintain detailed, accurate experimental records in accordance with company standards in Stellenbosch .

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Proven expertise in modern synthetic methodologies, reaction mechanisms, and stereoselective synthesis.
• Extensive experience with purification techniques such as column chromatography and recrystallization.
• Proficiency in using spectroscopic and chromatographic analytical instruments for compound characterization.
• Strong problem-solving skills, creativity in synthetic design, and excellent communication abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and a supportive work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training and conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the‑art synthetic and analytical chemistry laboratories in the vibrant Western Cape region.