Biomedical Research Scientist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid and provident fund

Career advancement opportunities

Conference and training support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Biomedical Research Scientist to join a cutting-edge laboratory in Gauteng. You will drive drug discovery from target validation to preclinical candidates, contributing to life-saving innovations in a rigorous science environment.

The role emphasizes independent and team-based work, ethical lab practices, and ongoing scientific training. Tembisa-based facility with opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in a life science field (Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry)
• 3+ years of drug discovery or biomedical research experience
• Proficiency in molecular/cellular biology techniques and data analysis tools
• Experience with in vivo disease models is highly desirable
• Strong written and verbal communication, ability to present data effectively
• Independent and collaborative work within a multidisciplinary team
• Ethical research practices and laboratory safety importance
• CRISPR or gene editing experience is a plus

Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess drug candidates.
• Identify and validate novel biological targets for intervention.
• Develop cell-based and biochemical assays for high-throughput screening.
• Analyze data with statistical software and interpret results.
• Collaborate with chemists and pharmacologists to advance leads.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations for reviews.
• Maintain meticulous lab records and comply with safety guidelines.
• Contribute to IP development and grant proposals.
• Stay updated with literature and new tech in pharmacology.

Skills

Molecular Biology

Cell Culture

In Vivo Models

CRISPR

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Lab Safety

Education

PhD in Pharmacology / Molecular Biology / Biochemistry

Tools

GraphPad Prism

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the Scientific Research & Development sector, is actively seeking a dedicated Biomedical Research Scientist to join their state-of-the-art laboratory facilities in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is central to our client's mission of discovering and developing novel therapeutic agents. You will be involved in the entire lifecycle of drug discovery, from initial target identification and validation to preclinical candidate selection. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to life-saving innovations within a highly collaborative and scientifically rigorous environment. The successful candidate will work within a team of experienced researchers and scientists, contributing to critical projects that have the potential to significantly impact global health. This role demands a deep understanding of biological processes and a passion for pushing the frontiers of medical science. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess the efficacy and safety of potential drug candidates.
• Identify and validate novel biological targets for therapeutic intervention in various disease areas.
• Develop and optimize cell-based assays and biochemical assays for high-throughput screening.
• Analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical methods and interpret results to guide further research.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and pharmacologists to advance lead compounds through the drug discovery pipeline.
• Prepare detailed reports, research summaries, and presentations for internal review and external publication.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and ensure compliance with all relevant safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and the preparation of grant proposals.
• Stay current with the latest scientific literature and emerging technologies in the fields of pharmacology and translational medicine.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related life science discipline.
• Demonstrated experience (3+ years) in drug discovery or a related biomedical research field.
• Proficiency in a range of molecular and cellular biology techniques (e.g., Western blotting, ELISA, cell culture, flow cytometry, qPCR).
• Experience with in vivo models of disease and relevant study designs is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, R).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to present scientific data effectively.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• A strong commitment to ethical research practices and laboratory safety.
• Experience with CRISPR technology or gene editing techniques is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience,
• comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits,
• ample opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• Researchers have access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment and resources, fostering an environment of continuous learning and discovery.
• The position is based in Tembisa, Gauteng , offering a chance to work within a vibrant scientific community.
• Our client is dedicated to work-life balance and provides support for ongoing scientific training and conference attendance.