Senior Research Scientist, Biochemistry - Yes

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement savings

Generous paid time off

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist with a Biochemistry focus for a fully remote role supporting drug discovery initiatives. You will design and optimize biochemical and biophysical assays, characterize targets, and contribute to publications.

The role requires a PhD in Biochemistry or related field, 5+ years of post-doc/industry experience, and strong data interpretation, with independence and remote collaboration across teams.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in biochemistry and drug discovery.
• Extensive experience in developing and performing diverse biochemical/biophysical assays (enzyme kinetics, SPR, ITC, fluorescence-based).
• Proficiency in protein purification and characterization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize biochemical and biophysical assays to study protein function and interactions.
• Characterize novel drug targets and elucidate their role in disease pathways.
• Develop and validate assays for high-throughput screening (HTS) and hit-to-lead optimization.
• Purify and characterize proteins using chromatography and spectroscopy.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing robust conclusions to guide project direction.
• Collaborate with molecular biology, pharmacology, and medicinal chemistry teams.
• Contribute to scientific strategy and project direction.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and manuscripts for publication.

Skills

Biochemistry

Molecular biology

Analytical thinking

Independent work

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Biochemistry

Tools

SPR

ITC

Fluorescence assays

Chromatography

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished research organization focused on novel therapeutics, is actively seeking a Senior Research Scientist with expertise in Biochemistry. This position is fully remote, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements from anywhere. You will play a crucial role in characterizing molecular mechanisms of disease, identifying potential therapeutic targets, and developing biochemical assays to support drug discovery efforts. Our client is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative remote work environment, where scientific curiosity and rigorous research are paramount. This role, connected to our research hub near Paarl, Western Cape, ZA , is ideal for an independent and driven scientist.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize biochemical and biophysical assays to study protein function and interactions.
• Characterize novel drug targets and elucidate their role in disease pathways.
• Develop and validate assays for high-throughput screening (HTS) and hit-to-lead optimization.
• Purify and characterize proteins using techniques such as chromatography and spectroscopy.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing robust conclusions to guide project direction.
• Collaborate closely with teams in molecular biology, pharmacology, and medicinal chemistry.
• Contribute to the scientific strategy and direction of research projects.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and manuscripts for publication.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in biochemistry and drug discovery.
• Extensive experience in developing and performing a variety of biochemical and biophysical assays (e.g., enzyme kinetics, SPR, ITC, fluorescence-based assays).
• Proficiency in protein purification and characterization techniques.
• Strong understanding of molecular mechanisms of disease.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting scientific findings.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness programs, retirement savings, and generous paid time off. Our fully remote structure ensures maximum flexibility and work-life balance. You will have access to virtual collaboration tools, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to be part of a leading-edge scientific team making significant contributions to human health. We are committed to providing a supportive and dynamic remote work environment where your expertise is valued and your career can thrive.