Senior Bioinformatics Scientist - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to join a drug discovery team in a fully remote role. You will analyze large-scale omics data, apply ML methods, and develop pipelines to identify targets and biomarkers, collaborating with biologists and chemists to guide experiments and interpretation.

The ideal candidate has a PhD and 5+ years in bioinformatics, with strong programming in Python or R and experience with genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data.

Qualifications

• PhD in a quantitative biosciences field is required.
• Minimum of 5 years in bioinformatics with drug discovery focus.
• Proficiency in Python or R and related libraries.
• Experience with NGS, transcriptomics, proteomics data preferred.
• Strong communication and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Analyze diverse high-throughput biological datasets (NGS, microarray, MS).
• Develop computational methods for target identification and biomarker discovery.
• Implement and optimize bioinformatics pipelines for data processing.
• Apply machine learning to uncover patterns and predictive models.
• Collaborate with scientists to interpret findings and guide experiments.
• Design computational experiments for drug discovery programs.
• Create data visualizations and reports for multidisciplinary teams.
• Stay updated on bioinformatics advances and tooling.
• Contribute to bioinformatics databases and infrastructure.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

Data analysis

Communication

Independent work

Education

PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or related

Tools

Biopython

SciPy

NumPy

Ensembl

NCBI

UCSC Genome Browser

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge biotechnology company at the forefront of precision medicine, is actively seeking a highly motivated Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to join their pioneering drug discovery team. This is a fully remote opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in the world. The successful candidate will be instrumental in analyzing large-scale biological datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, to identify novel drug targets and biomarkers. You will leverage advanced computational techniques and machine learning algorithms to drive insights and accelerate the drug discovery pipeline. This role offers an exceptional chance to work on transformative projects in a highly collaborative and innovative environment. We are looking for a candidate with a strong scientific background, exceptional computational skills, and a passion for translating complex biological data into actionable strategies for therapeutic development. As a remote-first organization, our client is committed to providing the tools, resources, and support necessary for your success, enabling you to make a significant impact on drug discovery initiatives. This position is ideal for an experienced bioinformatician eager to push the boundaries of scientific innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze diverse high-throughput biological datasets, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), microarray, and mass spectrometry data.
• Develop and apply computational and statistical methods for target identification, validation, and biomarker discovery.
• Implement and optimize bioinformatics pipelines for data processing, quality control, and analysis.
• Utilize machine learning and AI techniques to uncover complex patterns and predictive models within biological data.
• Collaborate closely with molecular biologists, chemists, and other researchers to interpret findings and guide experimental design.
• Contribute to the design and execution of computational experiments to support drug discovery programs.
• Develop data visualization tools and reports to effectively communicate complex results to multidisciplinary teams.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in bioinformatics, computational biology, and genomics.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of bioinformatics databases and infrastructure.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in bioinformatics, with a strong focus on drug discovery or related areas.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics, such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., Biopython, SciPy, NumNum).
• Hands-on experience with various bioinformatics tools and databases (e.g., Ensembl, NCBI, UCSC Genome Browser).
• Expertise in analyzing genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data.
• Experience with machine learning algorithms and their application to biological data is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and drug discovery processes.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including a performance-based bonus. Employees receive excellent health, dental, and vision insurance. A generous retirement savings plan with company matching is provided. Our client fosters a flexible work environment with ample opportunities for professional development, including access to cutting-edge technologies, conferences, and training programs. You will be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking team driving innovation in drug discovery. This role based out of Nelspruit, Mpumalanga provides the flexibility of remote work while contributing to global pharmaceutical advancements.