Research Fellow - Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Our client, What Jobs Direct, is recruiting for a highly skilled Research Fellow to join their innovative Pharmaceutical Chemistry department in Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal, ZA . This position is crucial for advancing our drug discovery and development pipeline. You will be responsible for the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of novel small molecules with therapeutic potential. This hands-on laboratory role requires a deep understanding of organic chemistry principles and a proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic routes.

You will work closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to achieve project milestones. The ideal candidate is passionate about creating new chemical entities and possesses excellent analytical skills, meticulous experimental technique, and a strong commitment to safety and quality in a fully on-site laboratory setting. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to impactful pharmaceutical research in a dynamic environment.

• Design and synthesize novel organic compounds for drug discovery programs.
• Develop and optimize synthetic routes for target molecules, ensuring efficiency and scalability.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using a variety of analytical techniques, including NMR, Mass Spectrometry, and HPLC.
• Conduct structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to guide lead optimization efforts.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists to identify promising chemical scaffolds and lead compounds.
• Work closely with biologists and pharmacologists to test and evaluate the efficacy and safety of synthesized compounds.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebooks and research records.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and regulatory guidelines within the Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal, ZA facility.

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of postdoctoral or industrial research experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably within the pharmaceutical sector.
• Extensive hands-on experience in modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques, including asymmetric synthesis and heterocyclic chemistry.
• Proficiency in spectroscopic techniques for compound characterization (NMR, MS, HPLC, IR).
• Strong understanding of medicinal chemistry principles and drug discovery processes.
• Proven ability to design and execute multi-step synthetic sequences.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong laboratory and practical skills, with a commitment to safety.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge drug discovery projects.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Access to state-of-the-art synthesis and analytical laboratories.
• Professional development opportunities and support for attending scientific conferences.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• A collaborative and scientifically stimulating work environment.
• Contribution to the development of potentially life-saving medicines.
• On-site position with full access to facilities and equipment.