Lead Biophysicist

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Health, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan with employer matching

Conference funding

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Tembisa, Gauteng seeks a Lead Biophysicist to spearhead biophysics for drug discovery. You will lead a team, design and execute experiments using SPR, ITC, MST, DLS, and thermal shift assays, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive programs forward.

The role combines hands-on science with strategic leadership, enabling the development of novel therapeutics and ensuring data integrity and safety across all activities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biophysics/biochemistry/molecular biology or related discipline.
• 7+ years research experience with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Hands-on label-free interaction analysis (SPR, BLI, ITC) expertise.
• Strong knowledge of protein expression, purification and characterization.
• Experience with structural biology techniques is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific direction and mentorship to the biophysics team.
• Design, optimize and implement biophysical techniques (SPR, ITC, MST, DLS, thermal shift).
• Investigate protein–ligand interactions, binding kinetics, thermodynamics, and conformational changes.
• Analyze and interpret complex biophysical data, generating high-quality reports.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, structural biology and pharmacology teams to advance drug discovery.
• Develop and validate new biophysical assays for screening and characterization of drug candidates.
• Contribute to strategic planning of research programs and identify new therapeutic targets.
• Ensure the highest standards of scientific rigor, data integrity, and laboratory safety.

Skills

Leadership

Scientific communication

Data analysis

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Ph.D. in Biophysics/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

Tools

SPR

ITC

BLI

DLS

Thermal Shift

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biopharmaceutical research organization, is seeking an exceptional Lead Biophysicist to spearhead their efforts in understanding molecular interactions and drug mechanisms of action. Based in Tembisa, Gauteng, this senior role will involve designing and executing complex biophysical experiments to support drug discovery and development programs. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in a range of biophysical techniques and a deep understanding of protein science and molecular pharmacology. You will lead a dedicated team of scientists, foster a collaborative research environment, and play a pivotal role in shaping the company's scientific direction. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in the Tembisa scientific community and contribute to the development of life-saving therapeutics. The role requires hands-on expertise and strategic leadership in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the biophysics group, providing scientific direction and mentorship to a team of researchers.
• Design, optimize, and implement a variety of biophysical techniques, including SPR, ITC, MST, DLS, and thermal shift assays.
• Investigate protein-ligand interactions, binding kinetics, thermodynamics, and conformational changes.
• Analyze and interpret complex biophysical data, generating high-quality reports and presentations.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemistry, structural biology, and pharmacology teams to advance drug discovery projects.
• Develop and validate new biophysical assays for screening and characterization of drug candidates.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of research programs and the identification of new therapeutic targets.
• Ensure the highest standards of scientific rigor, data integrity, and laboratory safety.
• Stay current with advancements in biophysics and relevant therapeutic areas.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant research experience in the biopharmaceutical industry or academia, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive hands-on experience with label-free interaction analysis techniques (e.g., SPR, BLI, ITC).
• Strong knowledge of protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting binding kinetics and thermodynamic data.
• Experience with structural biology techniques (e.g., crystallography, cryo-EM) is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills.
• Superb communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively present scientific findings to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure commensurate with experience.
• A comprehensive benefits package includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance.
• We provide a generous retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Opportunities for professional growth are abundant, including funding for conferences and continuous learning.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, is provided.
• Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates.

This position in Tembisa offers the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and contribute to impactful scientific discoveries in a supportive and innovative environment.