The Peptide Science Laboratory at the School of Agriculture and Science  (University of KwaZulu-Natal) is seeking a Senior Research Scientist (Synthetic Peptide/Organic Chemist) with experience in both solid-phase and liquid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS/LPPS), in particularly in Tag-assisted LPPS (TA-LPPS) for immediate incorporation into a very dynamic research group devoted to the synthesis and application (medicinal chemistry) of peptides.

 

Requirements

 

- Immediate incorporation

- Sound knowledge of peptide chemistry (SPPS/LPPS/Tag Assisted-LPPS).

- Ability to translate laboratory chemistry to product.

- More than eight years of experience in peptide research post-Ph.D.

- Evidence of working with pharmaceutical company in peptide chemistry (>2 years).

- Demonstrated ability to operate in a group leader capacity.

- Well demonstrated record (publications in Scopus and/or Clarivate) on peptide synthetic and/or organic chemistry with a focus in both methodology and medicinal chemistry.

 

Work Description

The candidate will work in projects in collaboration with international companies focused to the development of new methodology for the synthesis of peptides.

The candidate will develop new tools for Tag-assisted Liquid-Phase Peptide Synthesis (LPPS)

The candidate will develop green processes for solid-phase peptide synthesis

The candidate will be synthesizing peptides for medicinal chemistry programs

The candidate will be scientifically independent

The candidate will be helping Master and Ph.D. students.

The candidate will be involved in teaching/lecturing.

Position Location

Peptide Science Laboratory at the School of Chemistry & Physics (Westville Campus; University of KwaZulu-Natal)

Duration of the Contract

Two years

Salary

In agreement with the UKZN salaries.

Submission

Before January 29, 2026, submit CV, motivation letter (one page) and two references (email address) to Ms Nokwanda Majola (MajolaN6@ukzn.ac.za)