Lead Structural Biologist - Protein Dynamics Group

Placements24; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Performance incentives

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Premier Biomedical Research Institute is seeking a Lead Structural Biologist to direct the Protein Dynamics Group in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA. You will lead a team focused on high-resolution structures and protein dynamics using X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, with a strong emphasis on drug discovery and collaboration.

The role requires a Ph.D. in structural biology and a minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral experience, along with a proven track record in leadership, publications, and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral experience in structural biology with a proven leadership track record.
• Extensive hands-on experience in X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-EM.
• Proven ability to solve complex protein structures.
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and enzymology.
• Experience with protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization methods.
• Proven leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of structural biologists and research associates.
• Direct efforts to determine high-resolution structures of therapeutically relevant proteins.
• Oversee application and advancement of X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM techniques.
• Characterize dynamic properties and conformational changes of proteins.
• Integrate structural data with functional and biochemical assays.
• Develop and implement novel approaches for protein expression, purification, and crystallization.
• Collaborate with computational biologists and medicinal chemists to guide drug discovery.
• Publish findings in leading journals and present at international meetings.
• Secure research funding through grants and external collaborations.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster an innovative research environment.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication skills

Team mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Structural Biology or related field

Tools

X-ray crystallography

Cryo-EM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier biomedical research institute, is seeking an accomplished Lead Structural Biologist to direct their Protein Dynamics Group in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA. This leadership role is focused on elucidating the three-dimensional structures and dynamic behaviors of key biological macromolecules, particularly those involved in disease mechanisms. You will leverage advanced structural biology techniques, including X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), to drive significant discoveries. This is a unique opportunity to lead a talented team, shape research direction, and contribute to the development of novel therapeutics within our East London, Eastern Cape, ZA-based research hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of structural biologists and research associates.
• Direct research efforts focused on determining high-resolution structures of therapeutically relevant proteins.
• Oversee the application and advancement of X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM techniques.
• Characterize the dynamic properties and conformational changes of proteins and protein complexes.
• Integrate structural data with functional and biochemical assays.
• Develop and implement novel approaches for protein expression, purification, and crystallization.
• Collaborate with computational biologists and medicinal chemists to guide drug discovery efforts.
• Publish findings in leading scientific journals and present at international meetings.
• Secure research funding through grant applications and external collaborations.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster a productive and innovative research environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral experience in structural biology, with a proven track record of leading independent research.
• Extensive hands-on experience and expertise in X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-electron microscopy.
• Demonstrated success in solving complex protein structures.
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and enzymology.
• Experience with protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization methods.
• Proven leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• A strong publication record in high-impact scientific journals.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic research setting within East London, Eastern Cape, ZA.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, performance incentives, and relocation assistance for candidates moving to East London, Eastern Cape, ZA. We provide access to state-of-the-art structural biology facilities, including advanced X-ray diffractometers and cryo-EM microscopes. Opportunities for professional development, attending leading conferences, and contributing to impactful research are abundant. Join our collaborative and forward-thinking team in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA and shape the future of structural biology research.