Lead Computational Biologist - Structural Bioinformatics

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Computational Biologist specializing in Structural Bioinformatics to mentor a team in Kimberley. You will guide molecular modeling, dynamics simulations, and structure-based drug design to accelerate drug discovery, collaborating with chemists and biologists.

The role blends biology, chemistry, and computing in a hybrid work model. The ideal candidate holds a PhD with 7+ years of post-doctoral experience in structural bioinformatics, with leadership proven.

Qualifications

• PhD required with strong focus on structural bioinformatics.
• 7+ years post-doctoral experience in structural bioinformatics and leadership.
• Expertise in protein structure prediction, modeling, and simulation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of computational biologists in structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling.
• Develop computational strategies for protein structure prediction, analysis and docking.
• Design and run molecular dynamics simulations to study protein dynamics and interactions.
• Apply structure-based drug design to identify and optimize lead compounds.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to guide drug discovery.
• Develop and maintain robust computational pipelines and workflows.
• Analyze large-scale structural and functional datasets.
• Publish high-impact scientific work and present findings widely.

Skills

Python

C++

Scripting

Protein structure

Molecular modeling

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in Computational Biology or related field

Tools

Schrödinger

AMBER

GROMACS

Rosetta

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in pharmaceutical research and development, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Computational Biologist specializing in Structural Bioinformatics to join their team. Based in **Kimberley**, this role is crucial for leveraging computational approaches to understand protein structure, function, and interactions, thereby accelerating drug discovery and design. You will lead a team of computational biologists, guiding research efforts in areas such as molecular modeling, simulation, and structure-based drug design. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and computer science, contributing to the development of novel therapeutics. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep expertise in structural biology and computational methods, passionate about solving complex biological problems. Your leadership will be instrumental in advancing our client’s drug discovery pipeline and fostering a culture of scientific innovation. The hybrid model offers a flexible approach to work, balancing focused research with collaborative team interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of computational biologists focused on structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling.
• Develop and implement computational strategies for protein structure prediction, analysis, and docking.
• Design and execute molecular dynamics simulations to study protein dynamics and interactions.
• Apply structure-based drug design principles to identify and optimize novel lead compounds.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, structural biologists, and pharmacologists to guide drug discovery programs.
• Develop and maintain robust computational pipelines and workflows.
• Analyze large-scale structural and functional datasets.
• Author high-impact scientific publications and present findings at international conferences.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in structural bioinformatics, computational chemistry, and related fields.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of computational biology research within the organization.

Requirements

• PhD in Computational Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Computer Science, or a related field with a strong focus on structural bioinformatics.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in structural bioinformatics, with demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Deep expertise in protein structure prediction, molecular modeling, and simulation techniques (e.g., homology modeling, ab initio prediction, molecular dynamics).
• Proficiency in relevant computational chemistry and bioinformatics software packages (e.g., Schrödinger, AMBER, GROMACS, Rosetta).
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python or C++, and experience with scripting for scientific workflows.
• Solid understanding of protein structure, function, binding, and interactions.
• Experience with structure-based drug design methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superb communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing research projects and mentoring junior scientists.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, and attractive retirement savings options.
• This hybrid role provides the flexibility to work both remotely and from our state-of-the-art facilities in **Kimberley**, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• We are committed to employee growth and offer numerous opportunities for professional development, including attendance at leading scientific conferences and advanced training programs.
• Join a world-class research team and contribute to the discovery of life-saving medicines.
• Our client cultivates an environment of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Enjoy a challenging and rewarding career at the forefront of pharmaceutical research.