Senior Data Scientist - Bioinformatics

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Data Scientist in Soweto, Gauteng to lead analytics on genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data. You will develop advanced ML methods, build pipelines, and collaborate with biologists and clinicians to translate research questions into data-driven insights.

The role combines remote data analysis with on-site collaboration and access to specialized computational resources in a hybrid setup.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data science with a focus on bioinformatics and genomics.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Bioconductor).
• Experience with big data technologies and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong knowledge of statistical modeling, ML algorithms, and experimental design.
• Familiarity with genomic data analysis tools and databases.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement ML models and statistical analyses for large-scale biological data.
• Extract, clean, and transform diverse datasets (e.g., NGS, clinical records, imaging).
• Collaborate with biologists, geneticists, and clinicians to translate research questions into data science problems.
• Build predictive models for disease risk, treatment response, and patient stratification.
• Develop and maintain bioinformatics pipelines and software tools.
• Visualize complex data patterns and communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay current with advances in data science and bioinformatics.
• Contribute to publications and grant proposals.
• Mentor junior data scientists and share knowledge.

Skills

Python

R

Machine Learning

Statistics

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Bioinformatics/CS/Statistics

Tools

Bioconductor

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge genomics research firm in Soweto, Gauteng , is seeking a Senior Data Scientist specializing in Bioinformatics to drive insights from complex biological datasets. This role is essential for developing and applying advanced statistical and machine learning methodologies to genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data. You will play a key part in uncovering novel biomarkers, understanding disease mechanisms, and optimizing research strategies. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in personalized medicine and biotechnology within a collaborative and innovative setting. The position offers a hybrid work model, blending remote data analysis with crucial on-site team collaboration and access to specialized computational resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement sophisticated machine learning models and statistical analyses for large-scale biological data.
• Extract, clean, and transform diverse biological datasets (e.g., NGS data, clinical records, imaging data).
• Collaborate with biologists, geneticists, and clinicians to define research questions and translate them into data science problems.
• Build predictive models for disease risk, treatment response, and patient stratification.
• Develop and maintain bioinformatics pipelines and software tools.
• Visualize complex data patterns and communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and bioinformatics.
• Contribute to scientific publications and grant proposals.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to team knowledge sharing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in data science, with a strong focus on bioinformatics and genomics.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Bioconductor).
• Experience with big data technologies and cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and experimental design.
• Familiarity with genomic data analysis tools and databases is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and retirement planning support. Significant opportunities for professional development, including training and attendance at relevant conferences, are provided. The hybrid work model offers valuable flexibility. Located in Soweto, Gauteng , you will join a forward-thinking organization driving innovation in the biotechnology sector.