Lead Proteomics Researcher

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical and retirement benefits

Career growth opportunities

Access to cutting-edge instrumentation

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town is seeking a Lead Proteomics Researcher to drive proteomics initiatives, mass spectrometry workflows, and data interpretation to fuel drug discovery. You will lead a team of scientists in a state-of-the-art facility and collaborate with internal and external partners.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry or a related field with 7+ years of proteomics experience, including 3+ years in leadership, and hands-on use of

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry or related field with proteomics emphasis.
• 7+ years of proteomics experience; at least 3 years in leadership.
• Hands-on MS platforms and data-analysis software experience (MaxQuant, Spectronaut, Skyline).
• Proven expertise in biomarker discovery and drug target identification.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a proteomics team; provide guidance and performance management.
• Develop and optimize proteomics workflows including sample prep, MS acquisition, and data analysis.
• Oversee large-scale proteomics projects to identify biomarkers and targets.
• Manage collaborations with internal R&D and external partners.
• Ensure high data quality and reproducibility across experiments.
• Contribute to strategic planning and direction of the proteomics department.
• Present research findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

Team leadership

Project management

Proteomics expertise

Mass spectrometry

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Strategic planning

Education

PhD in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology/Analytical Chemistry

Tools

MaxQuant

Spectronaut

Skyline

Orbitrap

Q-TOF

Job description

About the Role Our client, a pioneering biotechnology firm situated in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape, is actively seeking a highly skilled and visionary Lead Proteomics Researcher to spearhead their cutting-edge proteomics initiatives. This is a critical leadership position responsible for driving innovation in protein analysis, mass spectrometry, and data interpretation to fuel drug discovery and development pipelines. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of proteomics technologies, a proven ability to manage complex research projects, and a passion for translating scientific findings into tangible therapeutic solutions. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our proteomic research, working within a state-of-the-art facility and collaborating with a world-class team of scientists. Join us in Cape Town and make a significant impact on global health.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of proteomics scientists, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Develop and optimize state-of-the-art proteomics workflows, including sample preparation, mass spectrometry acquisition, and data analysis.
• Oversee the execution of large-scale proteomics projects to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
• Manage collaborations with internal R&D teams and external academic partners.
• Ensure the highest standards of data quality and reproducibility in all experimental endeavors.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and direction of the proteomics department.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and publish in high-impact peer‑reviewed journals.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry, or a related field with a strong focus on proteomics.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in proteomics research, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with various mass spectrometry platforms (e.g., Orbitrap, Q-TOF) and associated data analysis software (e.g., MaxQuant, Spectronaut, Skyline).
• Proven expertise in quantitative proteomics techniques (e.g., TMT, iTRAQ, label‑free quantification).
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and signaling pathways.
• Experience in developing and validating proteomics assays for biomarker discovery and drug target identification.
• Excellent project management, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, innovative research environment located in Cape Town, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits package.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Significant opportunities for scientific and career growth.
• Access to cutting‑edge instrumentation and research infrastructure.
• Collaborative and dynamic work culture in Cape Town.
• Generous annual leave and performance‑based bonuses.