Senior Research Scientist - Structural Biology (Cryo-EM)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Hybrid work model

Professional growth support

Access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM and

Conferences and training opportunities

Generous paid time off

Employer matching retirement plans

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Soweto, Gauteng, to lead cryo‑EM based structure determination for drug discovery. The role combines hybrid work with essential on‑site collaboration at our research facility, focusing on high‑resolution structures of therapeutic targets.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in structural biology and 5–7 years of post‑doc or industry experience in cryo‑EM, with a proven publication record and strong modeling and data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology or related discipline.
• 5–7 years post‑doc or industry experience in cryo‑EM structure determination.
• Proven track record in cryo‑EM data acquisition, processing and structure determination.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute cryo-EM experiments to determine structures of therapeutic targets.
• Process, analyze, build and refine models using state‑of‑the‑art cryo‑EM software.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to apply structural data to drug design.
• Optimize protein expression, purification and sample prep for cryo‑EM.
• Troubleshoot cryo‑EM workflow challenges and stay current with new technologies.
• Contribute to manuscripts and present findings at conferences.
• Maintain rigorous lab records and manage cryo‑EM resources.
• Mentor junior researchers and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols.

Skills

Cryo-EM

Structural biology

Protein expression

Biochemistry

Education

Ph.D. in Structural Biology

Tools

RELION

cryoSPARC

cisTEM

PyMOL

ChimeraX

Phenix

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge biotechnology company at the forefront of therapeutic innovation, is actively seeking a Senior Research Scientist with expertise in Structural Biology, specifically focusing on Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM). This position operates on a hybrid model, allowing for a dynamic balance of focused remote work and essential collaborative engagement at our advanced research facility in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA . You will be instrumental in determining high-resolution structures of complex biological macromolecules, providing critical insights for drug discovery and development programs. This is a unique opportunity to join a world-class scientific team and contribute to the advancement of novel therapies. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a proven track record in cryo-EM structure determination and a deep understanding of protein biochemistry and structural biology principles. Your expertise will drive our client's pipeline forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute cryo-EM experiments to determine the three-dimensional structures of therapeutic targets and related proteins.
• Perform data processing, image analysis, model building, and refinement using state-of-the-art cryo-EM software packages.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists, molecular biologists, and other scientists to integrate structural findings into drug design strategies.
• Optimize protein expression, purification, and sample preparation techniques suitable for cryo-EM analysis.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during the cryo-EM workflow.
• Stay current with the latest advancements and emerging technologies in cryo-EM and related structural biology fields.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and manage cryo-EM resources.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of post-doctoral or industry experience focused on cryo-EM structure determination.
• Extensive hands-on experience with cryo-EM data acquisition, processing, and structure determination (e.g., using software like RELION, cryoSPARC, cisTEM).
• Proficiency with molecular visualization and modeling software (e.g., PyMOL, ChimeraX, Phenix).
• Demonstrated ability in protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry, molecular biology, and structural biology principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate productively in a hybrid team setting.
• Experience with X-ray crystallography or other biophysical techniques is a plus.
• A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating expertise in cryo-EM.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health, dental, and vision insurance.
• The hybrid work model offers a blend of remote flexibility and in-office collaboration.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including attending international conferences and specialized training, are generously supported.
• Employees have access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM facilities and advanced computational resources.
• A generous paid time off policy is in place.
• Retirement savings plans with employer matching are available.
• Our client fosters a highly collaborative and innovative research environment focused on impactful scientific discovery.