Lead Structural Biologist (Remote)

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Structural Biologist to drive insights into molecular mechanisms from a fully remote location. You will direct projects using X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and NMR, and collaborate with discovery teams worldwide to guide lead optimization.

The role demands 8+ years post-PhD experience, strong leadership, and the ability to communicate complex data clearly in a remote, global setup. A competitive package and growth opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• PhD in Structural Biology or related field.
• Post-PhD experience of 8+ years in structural biology, with leadership experience.
• Hands-on experience with X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-EM.
• Strong data analysis and structure determination skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration in global teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural biology projects to determine high-resolution structures of targets and complexes.
• Develop and optimize protein expression, purification, and crystallization/sample prep protocols for cryo-EM.
• Interpret structural data to aid structure-based drug design.
• Collaborate with computational chemists, medicinal chemists, and biologists.
• Manage remote team timelines, resources, and deliverables.
• Mentor junior scientists and researchers.
• Stay current with advances in structural biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Present findings to internal teams and external audiences.
• Contribute to strategic direction of structural biology initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Scientific communication

Mentoring

Project management

Education

PhD in Structural Biology

Biophysics/Biochemistry background

Tools

X-ray crystallography

Cryo-EM

NMR spectroscopy

Structure determination software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering pharmaceutical research organization, is seeking an accomplished Lead Structural Biologist to drive critical insights into molecular mechanisms from a remote location. This leadership role is pivotal in determining and analyzing the 3D structures of therapeutic targets and drug candidates, utilizing advanced techniques such as X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and NMR spectroscopy. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of protein structure-function relationships and a demonstrated ability to lead complex structural biology projects from conception to resolution. You will collaborate closely with discovery teams worldwide, contributing significantly to the design of novel therapeutics. This is a fully remote position, emphasizing autonomous work and strong communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute structural biology projects, employing techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and NMR spectroscopy to determine high-resolution structures of protein targets and complexes.
• Develop and optimize protocols for protein expression, purification, and crystallization/sample preparation for cryo-EM.
• Analyze and interpret structural data, contributing to structure-based drug design efforts.
• Collaborate effectively with computational chemists, medicinal chemists, and biologists to guide lead optimization.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and deliverables within a remote team setting.
• Mentor and guide junior structural biologists and research associates.
• Stay abreast of cutting-edge advancements in structural biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Present research findings clearly and concisely to internal project teams and external scientific audiences.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of structural biology initiatives.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and contribute to publications and patent applications.

Requirements

• PhD in Structural Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-PhD experience in structural biology, with a significant portion in a leadership capacity.
• Extensive hands-on experience with X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-electron microscopy.
• Proficiency in data collection, processing, and structure determination/refinement software.
• Strong understanding of protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization.
• Proven ability to lead complex structural biology projects and mentor junior scientists.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in a remote, global team environment.
• Experience with NMR spectroscopy is a plus.
• Track record of high-impact publications and/or patents.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance. As a fully remote position, it provides exceptional flexibility. Employees have access to leading-edge research technologies and opportunities for professional growth, including conference participation and specialized training. This role allows you to significantly impact drug discovery from anywhere, working with a world-class team.