Senior Scientist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Senior Scientist to lead drug discovery at their state-of-the-art facility. You will design and execute discovery programs, identify targets, and advance lead compounds toward preclinical development.

The role involves HTS assay development, in vitro/in vivo studies, and collaboration with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists. Mentoring junior staff and contributing to reports and publications are expected.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related life science discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery and development.
• Proven expertise in assay development, HTS, and lead optimization methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of discovery research projects focusing on target identification and validation.
• Develop and optimize high-throughput screening (HTS) assays and lead optimization strategies.
• Conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to characterize drug candidates and assess efficacy and safety.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists.
• Analyze and interpret complex data, presenting findings and recommendations to teams and management.
• Contribute to research reports, regulatory submissions, and scientific publications.

Skills

Assay development

HTS

Lead optimization

PK/PD understanding

Mentoring

Communication

Education

PhD in Pharmacology

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Tools

HTS platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Scientist to spearhead drug discovery initiatives within their state-of-the-art research facility in Durban . This critical role involves designing and executing innovative research programs aimed at identifying and validating novel drug targets and lead compounds. You will work within a dynamic, interdisciplinary team environment, contributing to the preclinical development of transformative therapies. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned researcher to make a significant impact on the company's pipeline and shape the future of therapeutic development in a highly collaborative setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of discovery research projects, focusing on target identification and validation.
• Develop and optimize high-throughput screening (HTS) assays and lead optimization strategies.
• Conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to characterize drug candidates and assess their efficacy and safety profiles.
• Collaborate effectively with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and DMPK scientists.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, presenting findings and strategic recommendations to project teams and management.
• Contribute to the preparation of research reports, regulatory submissions, and scientific publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in assay development, HTS, and lead optimization methodologies.
• Strong understanding of disease biology, target validation, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD).
• Proven ability to manage multiple research projects and mentor junior scientific staff.
• Excellent problem-solving capabilities and strong communication skills for effective collaboration in Durban .

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary with comprehensive performance incentives.
• Generous health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Access to advanced laboratory equipment and facilities.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within the organization.