Senior Research Scientist, Biologics Development

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive compensation

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join our fully remote biologics development team. The role focuses on discovery, characterization, and optimization of protein therapeutics from home.

The ideal candidate has a PhD and 6+ years in biologics, with hands-on biophysical expertise and a track record in protein/antibody engineering, formulation, and remote project leadership.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in biologics development.
• Proven expertise in protein engineering, antibody engineering, or protein therapeutic development.
• Hands-on experience with biophysical characterization techniques.
• Experience with biologics development from discovery through preclinical stages.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead remote projects.
• Computational modeling experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on development and optimization of therapeutic biologics.
• Apply protein engineering to enhance antibody or protein properties.
• Develop biophysical characterization assays (SPR, DLS, CD, thermal shift) to assess stability and function.
• Design formulation development studies for product stability and shelf-life.
• Troubleshoot expression, purification, and downstream processing issues.
• Collaborate with discovery biology, CMC, and regulatory teams.
• Analyze data and contribute to technical reports and publications.
• Stay current with biologics developments and technologies.
• Mentor junior scientists and research associates.
• Contribute to strategic planning of the biologics development group.

Skills

Protein engineering

Antibody engineering

Biophysical characterization

Formulation science

Data analysis

Remote leadership

Scientific writing

Education

PhD in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Molecular Biology

Tools

SPR

DLS

CD spectroscopy

Thermal shift assays

Computational modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering biopharmaceutical company focused on developing life-changing biologic therapies. We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Research Scientist to join our fully remote Biologics Development team. This role is central to the discovery, characterization, and optimization of novel protein-based therapeutics. The scientist will apply their deep understanding of protein engineering, biophysical characterization, and formulation science to advance our pipeline candidates. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a world-class team on impactful projects, driving innovation in the biopharmaceutical field from the comfort of your home. Our remote-first philosophy ensures seamless collaboration and productivity, enabling top talent to contribute from anywhere. We are committed to advancing cutting-edge biologics and require passionate individuals to join our mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on the development and optimization of therapeutic biologics.
• Apply principles of protein engineering and design to enhance antibody or protein therapeutic properties.
• Develop and perform advanced biophysical characterization assays (e.g., SPR, DLS, CD spectroscopy, thermal shift assays) to assess protein stability and function.
• Design and conduct formulation development studies to ensure product stability and shelf-life.
• Investigate and troubleshoot issues related to protein expression, purification, and downstream processing.
• Collaborate closely with discovery biology, CMC, and regulatory affairs teams.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, and contribute to the preparation of technical reports and publications.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and technologies in biologics development.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and research associates.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and direction of the biologics development group.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in biologics development.
• Proven expertise in protein engineering, antibody engineering, or protein therapeutic development.
• Hands-on experience with a wide range of biophysical characterization techniques.
• Strong understanding of protein expression, purification, and formulation science.
• Experience with biologics development from discovery through to preclinical stages.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex scientific information.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead research projects in a remote setting.
• Experience with computational modeling and protein structure analysis is a plus.
• A collaborative spirit and a track record of successful teamwork.

Benefits

This fully **Yes** remote position offers a highly competitive salary and an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and significant opportunities for professional growth. Employees benefit from a flexible work schedule and the ability to effectively present complex scientific information without geographical constraints. Our client provides access to state-of-the-art computational and data analysis tools, supporting continuous learning through online resources, workshops, and virtual conferences. This role offers substantial autonomy and the chance to make a significant impact on the development of novel therapeutics, fostering a rewarding career in biopharmaceutical innovation.