Principal Biochemist - Drug Discovery

Our client is seeking a distinguished Principal Biochemist to join their dynamic Drug Discovery team in Durban . This senior position is crucial for driving innovative approaches in identifying and validating novel drug targets. You will play a key role in designing and executing complex biochemical assays, leading critical research projects, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to accelerate the development of new therapeutics.

The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in biochemical techniques, a profound understanding of disease mechanisms, and a passion for scientific innovation, contributing to a culture of discovery and excellence in pharmaceutical research.

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of biochemical and enzymatic assays for drug discovery screening.
• Investigate molecular mechanisms of disease and identify potential therapeutic intervention points.
• Analyze and interpret complex biochemical data, ensuring the highest standards of scientific rigor.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance lead compounds.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the strategic direction of the drug discovery pipeline.
• Prepare high-quality scientific reports, contribute to patent applications, and present findings at key scientific forums.

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related field with a strong focus on drug discovery .
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Expertise in enzyme kinetics, protein purification, structural biology, and biophysical techniques.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex biochemical experiments and analyze results.
• Experience with high-throughput screening (HTS) methodologies is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership skills and a proven track record of successful project management and scientific publication.

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on impactful projects in a leading research organization.
• Support for continuous learning and professional growth in Durban .
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and cutting-edge instrumentation.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment dedicated to advancing medicine.