Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist - Novel Compound Synthesis

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist in Mahikeng, North West, to lead the design and execution of complex multi-step syntheses for novel compounds used in advanced materials and fine chemicals.

You will optimize reaction conditions, develop scalable routes, and document progress for the R&D team in Mahikeng. A PhD with 6+ years of industry/R&D experience and strong analytical skills are required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in an industrial or R&D setting.
• Proven track record in delivering complex syntheses and troubleshooting challenging reactions.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex multi-step organic synthesis pathways to create novel molecules.
• Optimize reaction parameters to maximize yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Develop scalable synthetic routes suitable for pilot plant and manufacturing stages.
• Purify synthesized compounds using chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize compounds using NMR, Mass Spectrometry, IR Spectroscopy, and HPLC.
• Conduct literature searches and patent reviews to inform strategies.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Multi-step synthesis

Troubleshooting

NMR

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

Mass Spectrometry

IR Spectroscopy

HPLC

Job description

Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist - Novel Compound Synthesis

About the Role Our client, a rapidly growing specialty chemical company, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist to join their innovative Research & Development team. This role, based in Mahikeng, North West, will be responsible for the design and execution of complex multi-step syntheses of novel organic compounds for diverse applications, including advanced materials and fine chemicals. You will lead challenging synthesis projects, optimize reaction conditions, and develop scalable synthetic routes. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern organic synthesis techniques, a strong track record of successful synthesis, and the ability to troubleshoot complex chemical challenges. Join a dedicated team focused on pushing the boundaries of chemical innovation in Mahikeng.

• Design and execute complex multi-step organic synthesis pathways to create novel molecules.
• Optimize reaction parameters (temperature, pressure, catalysts, solvents) to maximize yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Develop scalable synthetic routes suitable for pilot plant and potential manufacturing stages.
• Purify synthesized compounds using various techniques such as chromatography (column, flash), recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques including NMR, Mass Spectrometry, IR Spectroscopy, and HPLC.
• Conduct thorough literature searches and patent reviews to inform synthetic strategies and identify new research avenues.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and unexpected results, proposing and implementing effective solutions.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare comprehensive reports on synthesis progress and findings for the Mahikeng R&D team.

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in an industrial or R&D setting.
• Proven