Senior Biophysicist

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Biophysicist to join its R&D team in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The role focuses on designing and executing advanced biophysical experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive project milestones.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Biophysics or related field, 5+ years of relevant experience, and a proven publication record. The position emphasizes independent work, mentoring, and contributing to grant proposals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biophysics, Physics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years post-doctoral or industry research experience in biophysics.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental biophysical techniques and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (Origin, R, Python) and statistical methods.
• Strong understanding of protein structure-function relationships and molecular modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to publish research.
• Proven ability to work independently and in a team.
• Experience in Pietermaritzburg-based R&D is advantageous.
• Strong problem-solving and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and optimize sophisticated biophysical experiments using spectroscopy, calorimetry, and SPR.
• Develop and validate novel methodologies for probing molecular interactions and dynamics.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data with statistical and computational tools.
• Prepare technical reports, research papers, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with chemists, biologists, and engineers to integrate findings.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance.
• Contribute to new research proposals and grant applications.
• Stay updated with current literature and emerging trends.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and guidelines.

Skills

Biophysics expertise

Experimental techniques

Data analysis (Python/R Origin)

Molecular modeling

Scientific publication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Biophysics

Tools

Origin

R

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the field of biophysics, is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Senior Biophysicist to join their dynamic research and development team in Pietermaritzburg . This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements, pushing the boundaries of our understanding in molecular interactions and biological systems. The successful candidate will be instrumental in designing and executing complex experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones. We are looking for an individual with a passion for scientific discovery and a proven track record of success in a research environment. This position is crucial for the continued growth and success of our client's cutting-edge research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and optimize sophisticated biophysical experiments using techniques such as spectroscopy, calorimetry, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR).
• Develop and validate novel methodologies for probing molecular interactions and structural dynamics in biological systems.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using advanced statistical and computational tools.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with chemists, biologists, and engineers to integrate findings and advance research projects.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance within the biophysics team.
• Contribute to the conceptualization and development of new research proposals and grant applications.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of current literature and emerging trends in biophysics and related fields.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Physics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in biophysics.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental biophysical techniques and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., Origin, R, Python) and statistical methods.
• Strong understanding of protein structure-function relationships and molecular modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to publish research.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Experience in a Pietermaritzburg -based R&D setting is advantageous.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health and dental insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Employees also benefit from a collaborative work environment, access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and the chance to make a significant impact in the scientific community.
• We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and providing a supportive atmosphere for all our team members.
• The role offers potential for career advancement within the organization.