Senior Structural Biologist - Protein Crystallography

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Conference funding

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Premier Biomedical Research Institute in Sandton, Gauteng, invites a Senior Structural Biologist to advance understanding of protein structures and therapeutics. You will design and execute protein expression, purification, crystallization, and data collection, with hands-on leadership in a hybrid work setting.

The role emphasizes independent research, collaboration with chemists and biologists, and dissemination through publications and conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or related field.
• 7+ years post-doctoral experience in protein crystallography is preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in protein expression, purification, and structure determination.
• Proficiency with crystallographic software for data processing, structure solution, and refinement.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize protocols for expression, purification, and biophysical characterization of target proteins and complexes.
• Develop robust crystallization conditions and perform data collection at synchrotron facilities.
• Determine and refine protein structures using X-ray diffraction data and crystallographic software.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to guide drug design from structural insights.
• Lead and contribute to manuscript preparation and presentations at conferences.

Skills

Protein expression

Protein purification

X-ray crystallography

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Structural Biology or related field

Tools

Crystallographic software

FPLC systems

SPR/ITC/CD spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role Our client, a premier biomedical research institute located in Sandton , Gauteng, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Structural Biologist to join their world-class team. This role focuses on elucidating the three-dimensional structures of proteins and protein complexes critical for understanding disease mechanisms and developing novel therapeutics. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex protein expression, purification, crystallization, and data collection strategies. This is a hands-on laboratory position requiring deep expertise in structural biology techniques, particularly X-ray crystallography. We are looking for an independent, innovative scientist who can drive research projects forward and contribute to high-impact publications. The position is based in our cutting-edge research facilities in Sandton and offers a hybrid work model, promoting a balance between on-site collaboration and focused work.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and optimize protocols for the expression, purification, and biophysical characterization of target proteins and complexes.
• Develop robust crystallization conditions and perform routine crystallographic data collection at synchrotron facilities.
• Determine and refine protein structures using X-ray diffraction data, applying advanced crystallographic software.
• Analyze and interpret structural data to understand protein function, mechanism, and interactions.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemists and biologists to guide drug design efforts based on structural insights.
• Maintain and operate protein purification equipment, including FPLC systems.
• Prepare high-quality scientific manuscripts for publication in leading journals.
• Present research findings at international conferences and internal scientific meetings.
• Contribute to grant writing and the development of new research proposals.
• Ensure accurate and detailed record-keeping of all experimental procedures and results.

Requirements

• PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral experience in protein crystallography.
• Demonstrated expertise in protein expression (e.g., E. coli, insect cells), purification, and structural determination.
• Proficiency with crystallographic software for data processing, structure solution, and refinement.
• Experience with various biophysical techniques (e.g., SPR, ITC, CD spectroscopy) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry and molecular biology.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills for scientific reporting and presentation.
• Ability to work independently and lead research efforts within a collaborative team in Sandton .
• Willingness to travel to synchrotron facilities for data collection.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including excellent health insurance and a generous retirement plan. We are committed to supporting professional development through funding for conferences, workshops, and advanced training. This role provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant biomedical research advancements. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement while working at the forefront of structural biology in Sandton .