Principal Chemist - Pharmaceutical Research
Cape Town, 7561, South Africa
Listed on 2026-09-21
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Research/Development
Pharmaceutical Science/ Research, Drug Discovery, Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemist
About the Role
Our client is seeking a visionary Principal Chemist to lead critical research and development initiatives within their pharmaceutical division in Cape Town . This senior role will focus on the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel small molecules for therapeutic applications, contributing directly to the company's drug discovery pipeline. You will leverage your extensive expertise in organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry to guide projects from conception through to preclinical development.
This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a hybrid model, balancing focused lab work with remote strategic planning and data analysis, within a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and scientific excellence.
- Lead the design and synthesis of novel chemical entities with desired pharmacological profiles.
- Develop and optimize synthetic routes for target compounds, ensuring scalability and reproducibility.
- Characterize synthesized compounds using a range of analytical techniques, including NMR, MS, and HPLC.
- Collaborate with biologists and pharmacologists to evaluate the efficacy and safety of lead compounds.
- Manage research projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and risk assessment.
- Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in medicinal and synthetic organic chemistry.
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical R&D, with a focus on small molecule drug discovery.
- Demonstrated expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and stereoselective synthesis.
- Proficiency in modern analytical techniques for compound characterization.
- Experience with computational chemistry tools and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis.
- Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills, with the ability to thrive in a hybrid work setting.
- Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced analytical equipment.
- Hybrid work model offering flexibility between on-site and remote work.
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
- Opportunities for professional growth, conference attendance, and publication.
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