Senior Biophysicist - Protein Folding and Dynamics

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Biophysicist for a world-leading research institute in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role combines on-site experimental work with flexible, hybrid arrangements as part of a multidisciplinary biophysics group.

You will lead projects studying protein folding, dynamics, and interactions using state-of-the-art biophysical techniques, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to high-impact publications from this vibrant facility.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on protein structure and dynamics.
• Minimum of 6 years of postdoctoral research experience in experimental biophysics.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex biophysical experiments independently.
• Strong publication record and capability to communicate complex results clearly.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct advanced biophysical experiments to study protein folding pathways, conformational dynamics, and molecular interactions.
• Utilize spectroscopy (fluorescence, CD, NMR), calorimetry (ITC, DSC), mass spectrometry, SPR, and single-molecule methods.
• Develop and optimize protocols for high-throughput screening and mechanistic studies.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and present scientifically sound conclusions.
• Collaborate with computational biologists and structural modelers to integrate data with predictions.
• Mentor junior researchers and students in biophysical methodologies.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present findings at international conferences.
• Maintain and upgrade biophysical instrumentation in Stellenbosch facility.

Skills

Biophysics

Protein folding

Data analysis

Experimental design

Education

PhD

Tools

NMR

ITC

DSC

SPR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-leading research institute at the forefront of understanding complex biological systems, is seeking a Senior Biophysicist to join their esteemed team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is central to investigating the fundamental principles of protein folding, dynamics, and interactions, utilizing cutting-edge biophysical techniques. You will lead research projects aimed at unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying protein function and dysfunction, with potential implications for therapeutic development. The successful candidate will work with state-of-the-art instrumentation and collaborate with a multidisciplinary group of scientists. This hybrid position offers the best of both worlds: impactful on-site research activities and flexibility for focused work. We are committed to advancing the field of biophysics and seeking passionate individuals to contribute to our vibrant research community in Stellenbosch.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct advanced biophysical experiments to study protein folding pathways, conformational dynamics, and molecular interactions.
• Utilize a range of biophysical techniques, including spectroscopy (fluorescence, CD, NMR), calorimetry (ITC, DSC), mass spectrometry, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and single-molecule methods.
• Develop and optimize experimental protocols for high-throughput screening and detailed mechanistic investigations.
• Analyze complex experimental data, interpret results, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Collaborate with computational biologists and structural modelers to integrate experimental data with theoretical predictions.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and students in biophysical methodologies and data interpretation.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact scientific journals and present findings at international conferences.
• Contribute to the maintenance and upgrade of state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation within the Stellenbosch facility.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on protein structure and dynamics.
• Minimum of 6 years of postdoctoral research experience in experimental biophysics.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple biophysical techniques relevant to protein folding and dynamics.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex biophysical experiments independently.
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and structural biology.
• Experience with data analysis software and statistical methods relevant to biophysical data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong publication record.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment, both on-site and remotely as part of a hybrid team.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including excellent medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous leave allowances. This hybrid role allows for a dynamic work-life balance. We provide significant opportunities for professional development, including access to workshops, training programs, and funding for conference participation. Join our vibrant biophysics research group in Stellenbosch and contribute to fundamental discoveries in protein science and molecular mechanisms.