Senior Biophysicist for Advanced Material Research

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Work-life balance

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Midrand, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Biophysicist to join its cutting-edge R&D team. You will lead biophysical studies on novel biomaterials for regenerative medicine, collaborating with chemists, material scientists, and biologists.

The role requires a PhD and 5+ years in biophysics, with hands-on expertise in SPR, ITC, fluorescence spectroscopy, AFM or cryo-EM, and strong data analysis using R or Python. You will design experiments and publish findings.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biophysics, Physical Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral or industry research experience in biophysics or related discipline.
• Proven expertise in SPR, ITC, fluorescence spectroscopy, AFM, or cryo-EM.
• Strong data analysis and visualization skills (R, Python).
• Track record of designing, executing, and interpreting complex experiments.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex biophysical experiments to characterize biomaterials and biological systems.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets using advanced statistics and computational tools.
• Develop and optimize protocols for material–protein and material–cell interactions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to achieve project goals.
• Contribute to IP development via patent filings and publications.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to R&D strategy.
• Present findings at internal meetings and external conferences.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical guidelines.

Skills

SPR

ITC

Fluorescence

AFM

Cryo-EM

Statistics

Education

PhD in Biophysics or related

Tools

R

Python

GraphPad Prism

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in material science, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Biophysicist to join their dynamic research and development team in Midrand, Gauteng. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects focused on developing novel biomaterials with applications in regenerative medicine and advanced diagnostics. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving research initiatives from conception through to experimental validation. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, leveraging your expertise in biophysical principles to solve complex challenges. This position requires a deep understanding of molecular interactions, protein folding, and cellular mechanics, applied within a fast-paced R&D environment. We are committed to fostering an environment of scientific excellence and innovation, making this a prime opportunity for a passionate researcher seeking to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex biophysical experiments to characterize novel biomaterials and biological systems.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets using advanced statistical methods and computational tools.
• Develop and optimize experimental protocols for evaluating material-protein and material-cell interactions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chemists, material scientists, and biologists, to achieve project goals.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property through patent filings and scientific publications.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the overall scientific strategy of the R&D department.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Ensure all research activities comply with safety regulations and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Physical Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in biophysics or a closely related discipline.
• Proven expertise in techniques such as Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC), fluorescence spectroscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and/or cryo-EM.
• Strong understanding of statistical analysis and data visualization software (e.g., R, Python, GraphPad Prism).
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and interpret complex experiments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a **Midrand, Gauteng** based laboratory.
• Experience with biomaterial characterization or cell-based assays is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a generous annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• We provide a robust retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are actively encouraged through workshops, conferences, and internal training programs.
• A supportive work environment that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance is a cornerstone of our culture.
• This role also includes paid time off, holiday leave, and sick leave, ensuring our team members can recharge and maintain well-being.
• Joining our team means becoming part of a forward-thinking organization dedicated to scientific advancement.