Lead Computational Biologist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Home office stipend

Health insurance

Leadership development

Flexible hours

Remote research environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Computational Biologist to spearhead drug discovery remotely, guiding a team of biologists and data scientists with cutting-edge computational strategies.

You will translate complex omics data into actionable targets, oversee tools and databases, collaborate with chemists and pharmacologists, and report to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, CS, or related field.
• At least 8 years in computational biology with leadership.
• Experience applying computational methods to drug discovery, including target ID, virtual screening, PK/PD.
• Proficiency in Python and R; experience with bioinformatics/cheminformatics tools.
• Experience with ML, AI, and big data analytics in biology.
• Excellent communication and remote leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of computational biologists and data scientists focused on drug discovery research.
• Develop and implement computational strategies for target identification, validation, and hit-to-lead optimization.
• Analyze complex biological data from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and chemical screening.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to integrate computational insights into project workflows.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of computational tools and databases to support drug discovery efforts.
• Communicate research progress and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and project teams.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

Big data analytics

Communication

Leadership

Team management

Education

Ph.D. in Computational Biology or related field

Tools

Bioinformatics tools

Cheminformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Computational Biologist to spearhead their Drug Discovery initiatives in a fully remote capacity. This pivotal role involves leading a team of computational biologists and data scientists in the application of advanced computational techniques to identify and validate novel therapeutic targets. You will be instrumental in shaping the computational strategy, guiding project execution, and ensuring the effective integration of data-driven insights into the drug discovery pipeline. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a scientific leader who is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge computational biology to accelerate the development of life-saving medicines, thriving in a collaborative, fully remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of computational biologists and data scientists focused on drug discovery research.
• Develop and implement computational strategies for target identification, validation, and hit-to-lead optimisation.
• Analyze complex biological data from various sources, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and chemical screening.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to integrate computational insights into project workflows.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of computational tools and databases to support drug discovery efforts.
• Communicate research progress and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and project teams.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field with a strong focus on drug discovery.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in computational biology, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Extensive experience in applying computational methods to drug discovery, including target ID, virtual screening, and PK/PD modelling.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and R, and expertise in relevant bioinformatics and cheminformatics tools.
• Experience with machine learning, AI, and big data analytics in a biological context.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and strategic thinking skills, essential for leading remote teams and initiatives.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Generous remote work benefits, including home office set-up and stipends.
• Full spectrum of health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, innovation, and leadership development.
• A highly dynamic and collaborative remote research environment focused on impactful drug discovery.
• Flexible working hours promoting work-life integration.