Senior Biophysicist

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Conference participation

State-of-the-art instrumentation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Biophysicist to lead experimental design and analysis of biomolecular systems in Soweto. The role focuses on protein structure-function, membrane biophysics, and molecular interactions, with access to state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a related field and 5+ years of biophysics experience, with proven publication records and strong computational skills to interpret experimental data.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in biophysics research.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple biophysical techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong theoretical understanding of physical chemistry principles as applied to biological systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to elucidate the physical properties of biomolecules and biological systems.
• Utilize and advance a variety of biophysical techniques including spectroscopy, calorimetry, SPR, ITC, and X-ray/cryo-EM.
• Develop and apply computational modeling to interpret data and predict molecular behavior.
• Characterize protein-ligand interactions, folding, aggregation, and membrane dynamics.
• Collaborate with biochemists, molecular biologists, and structural biologists on research questions.
• Analyze large datasets ensuring accuracy and rigor; publish findings.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance to staff.
• Maintain and operate advanced biophysical instrumentation and troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Biophysics expertise

Protein structure-function

Data analysis

Computational modeling

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Biophysics/related

Tools

Spectroscopy (UV-Vis, Fluorescence, CD)

Calorimetry (ITC, DSC)

SPR

X-ray crystallography

Cryo-EM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned biotechnology research institute, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Biophysicist to join their dynamic research team. This role is dedicated to investigating the fundamental physical principles governing biological systems, with a focus on protein structure-function relationships, molecular interactions, and membrane biophysics. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background combined with extensive practical experience in a range of biophysical techniques. This position is crucial for advancing our understanding of biological mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic strategies. The role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , a region experiencing significant growth in its scientific and medical research landscape. Our client is committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment, supporting its scientists in achieving groundbreaking discoveries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct sophisticated experiments to elucidate the physical properties of biomolecules and biological systems.
• Utilize and advance a variety of biophysical techniques, including spectroscopy (UV-Vis, fluorescence, CD), calorimetry (ITC, DSC), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM.
• Develop and apply computational modeling techniques to interpret experimental data and predict molecular behavior.
• Characterize protein-ligand interactions, protein folding, protein aggregation, and membrane dynamics.
• Collaborate with biochemists, molecular biologists, and structural biologists to address complex research questions.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets, ensuring accuracy and rigor in findings.
• Author high-quality research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance to laboratory staff.
• Maintain and operate advanced biophysical instrumentation, troubleshooting issues as they arise.
• Contribute to the development of new research methodologies and instrumentation.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in biophysics research.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple biophysical techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong theoretical understanding of physical chemistry principles as applied to biological systems.
• Experience with structural biology techniques (crystallography, cryo-EM) is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and computational modeling relevant to biophysics.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a meticulous approach to experimental design and execution.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proven publication record.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Experience with membrane biophysics or single-molecule techniques is a plus.
• A passion for fundamental scientific inquiry and its application to biological problems.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with an annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical and dental coverage, is provided.
• A robust retirement savings plan is available with employer contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including access to workshops, training programs, and conference participation.
• Our client provides access to state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation and facilities in Soweto, Gauteng .
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Our client is committed to employee well‑being and offers support programs.