Biochemist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Pension fund contribution

Paid annual leave

Hybrid work model

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Biochemist for our South African-based Tembisa laboratory with a hybrid work model offering remote days. The candidate will contribute to target validation, assay development, and small molecule screening within a collaborative team focused on drug discovery.

The role requires an MSc/ PhD in a relevant field and a minimum of three years' experience, plus hands-on biochemical techniques, mammalian cell culture, and strong data interpretation using GraphPad Prism and R.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in drug discovery or related field.
• Hands-on expertise in enzyme kinetics and binding assays.
• Proficiency with HTS assay development and validation.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays.
• Strong data analysis skills using GraphPad Prism and R.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize biochemical and cellular assays for target validation and drug screening.
• Run high-throughput screening campaigns to identify novel drug candidates.
• Characterize potency, selectivity, and MOA of lead compounds.
• Conduct in vitro studies on metabolism and pharmacokinetic properties.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and patent applications.

Skills

Biochemistry

Cell culture

HTS assay development

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

MSc or PhD in Biochemistry/Pharmacology/ Molecular Biology

Tools

GraphPad Prism

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic biopharmaceutical company at the forefront of developing novel therapeutics, is seeking a talented Biochemist to contribute to their groundbreaking drug discovery programs. This role is ideal for a scientist passionate about understanding disease mechanisms at a molecular level and translating this knowledge into potential life-saving treatments. The position involves working within a state-of-the-art laboratory environment, focusing on target validation, assay development, and small molecule screening. While the role is primarily based in our Tembisa laboratory, a hybrid work model is offered, providing flexibility for remote work on designated days. You will be an integral part of a collaborative team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medicinal chemistry and pharmacology, making a real difference in patient lives.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and optimize biochemical and cellular assays for target validation and drug screening. Perform high-throughput screening (HTS) campaigns to identify novel drug candidates. Characterize the potency, selectivity, and mechanism of action of lead compounds. Conduct in vitro studies to assess drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic properties. Analyze experimental data using statistical software and present findings to the research team. Contribute to the design of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists. Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records. Troubleshoot experimental issues and propose solutions. Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and patent applications.

Requirements

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline. Minimum of 3 years of experience in drug discovery or a related field. Hands-on experience with a variety of biochemical techniques (e.g., enzyme kinetics, binding assays). Proficiency in assay development and validation for HTS. Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays. Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, R). Strong understanding of drug discovery principles and methodologies. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Good oral and written communication skills.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package including a substantial annual salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, and a generous pension fund contribution.
• Employees benefit from ample paid annual leave, sick leave, and study leave for professional development.
• The hybrid work model offers a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Opportunities for career advancement are actively supported through training programs, conference attendance, and internal mobility.
• A relocation assistance package may be available for successful candidates relocating to the Tembisa area.