Senior Scientist - Medicinal Chemistry

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Scientist specializing in Medicinal Chemistry to contribute to their drug discovery efforts in Vereeniging. This role focuses on the design, synthesis, and optimization of novel small molecule drug candidates. You will play a critical role in advancing projects through hit-to-lead and lead optimization stages, working closely with biologists and other chemists to achieve challenging therapeutic goals.

This position offers a fantastic opportunity to apply advanced synthetic organic chemistry skills in a collaborative and innovative research environment.

• Design and synthesize novel small molecules with desired pharmacological properties.
• Optimize lead compounds to improve potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic profiles.
• Develop robust synthetic routes and troubleshoot challenging chemical reactions.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques such as NMR, LC-MS, and HPLC.
• Collaborate effectively with biologists to understand structure-activity relationships (SAR) and guide compound design.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and contribute to scientific reports and publications.

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in medicinal chemistry within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including asymmetric synthesis and heterocyclic chemistry.
• Proficiency in modern analytical techniques for compound characterization.
• Experience in structure-based drug design and SAR exploration.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to research challenges in Vereeniging.

• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Support for professional development and continuing education.
• A dynamic and collaborative R&D environment focused on creating life-changing medicines.