Research Scientist - Biochemistry

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid options

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 in Mpumalanga seeks a Research Scientist with Biochemistry expertise to join its R&D team in Nelspruit. You will design experiments to study biochemical pathways, purify enzymes and proteins, and contribute to therapeutic strategies addressing regional health challenges.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Biochemistry or related field with 3+ years post‑doc/industry experience and strong analytical and communication skills for publishing and presenting findings.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years post-doctoral or industry experience in biochemistry.
• Proven experience with protein purification, enzyme kinetics, and assay development.

Responsibilities

• Investigate protein structure-function relationships using biochemical and biophysical techniques.
• Develop and optimize assays for measuring enzyme kinetics and binding affinities.
• Purify and characterize proteins and other biomolecules using chromatography, electrophoresis, and spectroscopy.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, presenting findings clearly and concisely.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to explore disease mechanisms and interventions.

Skills

Protein purification

Enzyme kinetics

Biochemical assay development

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Biochemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC

Mass spectrometry

Spectrophotometry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented Research Scientist with expertise in Biochemistry to join their dedicated R&D team in Nelspruit . This position is central to investigating the structure, function, and interactions of key biological molecules. You will be responsible for designing and conducting experiments to elucidate biochemical pathways, characterize enzymes and proteins, and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical understanding of biochemistry and practical laboratory skills, contributing to advancements in health and medicine within the Mpumalanga region.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate protein structure-function relationships using biochemical and biophysical techniques.
• Develop and optimize assays for measuring enzyme kinetics and binding affinities.
• Purify and characterize proteins and other biomolecules using chromatography, electrophoresis, and spectroscopy.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, presenting findings clearly and concisely.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to explore the biochemical underpinnings of diseases and potential therapeutic interventions.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in a biochemistry research setting.
• Proven experience with protein purification, enzyme kinetics, and biochemical assay development.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, mass spectrometry, and spectrophotometry.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and excellent written and oral communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund options.
• Support for professional development, including attendance at scientific workshops and conferences.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment in Nelspruit .
• A collaborative research environment focused on scientific excellence and innovation.