Senior Protein Biochemist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Health insurance and retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Protein Biochemist to join a leading biochemical R&D team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, focusing on protein expression, purification and functional analyses for therapeutic development.

The candidate should have a PhD and 5+ years of protein biochemistry experience, with strong data interpretation, writing and collaboration skills, and the ability to mentor junior scientists in a state-of-the-art facility.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years post-PhD experience in protein biochemistry.
• Proven expertise in protein purification (affinity, ion-exchange, size-exclusion).
• Hands-on experience with biochemical and biophysical characterization methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize protein expression, purification and characterization protocols.
• Use biochemical/biophysical techniques to analyze protein properties.
• Perform functional assays to evaluate enzyme activity and interactions.
• Isolate and purify recombinant and native proteins from various systems.

Skills

Protein biochemistry

Analytical skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Biochemistry/Biophysics/Molecular Biology

Tools

Protein purification techniques (affinity, ion-exchange, size-exclusion)

Chromatography

Spectroscopy (e.g., CD)

SPR/ITC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in biochemical research and development, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Protein Biochemist to join their innovative team in **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**. This critical role will focus on the characterization, purification, and functional analysis of proteins relevant to therapeutic development. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in protein biochemistry techniques and a strong understanding of protein structure-function relationships. You will be instrumental in driving key research projects forward, contributing to the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility within the beautiful **Mossel Bay** region, collaborating with a team of dedicated scientists. We are committed to fostering a collaborative research environment and supporting professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize protocols for protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Utilize a variety of biochemical and biophysical techniques (e.g., chromatography, electrophoresis, spectroscopy, SPR, ITC) to analyze protein properties.
• Perform functional assays to evaluate enzyme activity, binding kinetics, and protein-protein interactions.
• Isolate and purify recombinant and native proteins from various expression systems.
• Characterize protein structure and stability using methods such as CD spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry.
• Troubleshoot complex experimental challenges in protein biochemistry.
• Collaborate with structural biologists and molecular biologists to understand protein function in context.
• Contribute to the interpretation of data and the preparation of research reports and publications.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in protein biochemistry methodologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in protein biochemistry.
• Proven expertise in protein purification techniques (e.g., affinity, ion-exchange, size-exclusion chromatography).
• Hands-on experience with a range of biochemical and biophysical characterization methods.
• Strong understanding of enzyme kinetics and protein-ligand interactions.
• Familiarity with protein structure analysis and computational modeling is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present scientific findings clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Experience working in **Mossel Bay** or the surrounding Western Cape area is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple research tasks and projects simultaneously.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning assistance, and generous paid time off.
• The **Hybrid** work arrangement provides flexibility for employees to balance work and personal life effectively.
• You will have access to advanced laboratory equipment and resources in **Mossel Bay**.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and training programs, are readily available.
• The company fosters a positive and collaborative work culture, encouraging innovation and scientific excellence.
• This role is an excellent opportunity for career growth within a leading research organization.