Lead Computational Biologist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

excellent health insurance

generous retirement plan

professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a pioneering biotechnology firm in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA, in recruiting a Lead Computational Biologist to guide a team and drive genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics initiatives. You will design and implement computational analyses, build scalable pipelines, and collaborate with experimental scientists to translate data into actionable insights.

The role demands leadership, strong programming skills in Python and R, and a track record of publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, CS, Statistics, or related quantitative field.
• 8+ years progressive experience in computational biology or bioinformatics with leadership.
• Proven expertise in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics analysis.
• Strong programming (Python, R, shell) and data visualization skills.
• Experience with HPC/Cloud environments and bioinformatics tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and application of computational methods for large-scale biological datasets.
• Design and implement pipelines for genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data.
• Collaborate with experimental biologists and clinicians to interpret data.
• Develop predictive models using ML/AI for biological applications.
• Supervise and mentor a team of computational biologists and data scientists.
• Manage computational infrastructure and data storage.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in computational biology.
• Communicate findings through reports, presentations, and publications.
• Contribute to strategic R&D direction.

Skills

Python

R

Shell scripting

Machine learning

Data visualization

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Public speaking

Education

PhD in Computational Biology or related

Tools

Bioinformatics tools

Databases & algorithms

HPC/Cloud platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biotechnology firm located in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA , is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Computational Biologist . This crucial role involves leveraging advanced computational approaches and bioinformatics tools to analyze complex biological data, driving insights in areas such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. You will lead a team of computational biologists, develop cutting-edge analysis pipelines, and collaborate with experimental scientists to accelerate discovery in areas like personalized medicine and disease research. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements in a rapidly evolving field.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and application of computational and statistical methods for the analysis of large-scale biological datasets (e.g., next-generation sequencing, microarrays, mass spectrometry).

Design and implement bioinformatics pipelines for genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data analysis.

Collaborate with experimental biologists, geneticists, and clinicians to interpret data and generate actionable insights.

Develop predictive models using machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques for biological applications.

Supervise, mentor, and guide a team of computational biologists and data scientists.

Manage computational infrastructure and ensure efficient data processing and storage.

Stay current with emerging technologies and methodologies in computational biology and bioinformatics.

Communicate complex findings clearly through reports, presentations, and publications.

Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's R&D efforts.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.

Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in computational biology or bioinformatics, with demonstrated leadership.

Proven expertise in analyzing diverse biological datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics.

Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and shell scripting.

Experience with bioinformatics tools, databases, and algorithms.

Knowledge of machine learning, statistical modeling, and data visualization techniques.

Experience managing high-performance computing environments or cloud platforms.

Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

Strong publication record and experience presenting at scientific conferences.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including excellent health insurance, a generous retirement plan, and opportunities for professional development.

• excellent health insurance
• a generous retirement plan
• opportunities for professional development

The role is located in the beautiful region of Nelspruit , offering a unique quality of life.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive atmosphere that values scientific excellence, innovation, and work-life balance.