Senior Systems Biologist - Computational Modeling

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein invites a Senior Systems Biologist to lead computational modeling efforts across cellular and organismal systems. You will develop, validate, and apply models, integrate multi-omics data, and guide experimental design while collaborating with experimental biologists.

The role requires a PhD and 6+ years of modeling experience, strong programming skills (Python/R/MATLAB/C++), and a track record of publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Systems Biology, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Bioengineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research experience in developing computational models for biological systems.
• Strong programming skills in Python, R, MATLAB, or C++.
• Experience with modeling software and frameworks (e.g., COPASI, CellDesigner, SBML).
• Solid understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team with publications.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement computational models of biological systems (e.g., metabolic networks, signaling pathways, gene regulatory networks).
• Integrate multi-omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) into systems biology models.
• Perform simulations and sensitivity analyses to understand system dynamics and predict responses to perturbations.
• Collaborate with experimental biologists to design experiments that test model predictions and refine models.
• Develop and maintain software tools and pipelines for systems biology analysis.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in systems biology and related disciplines.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to grant writing efforts.

Skills

Python

R

MATLAB

C++

Education

PhD in Systems Biology

Tools

COPASI

CellDesigner

SBML

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading research organization at the intersection of biology and computation, is seeking an accomplished Senior Systems Biologist to drive advancements in complex biological modeling. This influential position is located in **Bloemfontein**, Free State, ZA. You will be responsible for developing and applying computational models to understand cellular and organismal systems, predict biological behavior, and guide experimental design. This role requires a deep understanding of biological processes combined with strong computational and mathematical skills. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to integrate diverse datasets and translate biological questions into tractable modeling challenges. This is a vital role for our client's ongoing efforts to unravel complex biological mechanisms and develop novel therapeutic strategies. The **Bloemfontein** campus offers a collaborative and stimulating research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement computational models of biological systems (e.g., metabolic networks, signaling pathways, gene regulatory networks).
• Integrate multi-omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) into systems biology models.
• Perform simulations and sensitivity analyses to understand system dynamics and predict responses to perturbations.
• Collaborate with experimental biologists to design experiments that test model predictions and refine models.
• Develop and maintain software tools and pipelines for systems biology analysis.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in systems biology, computational biology, and relevant biological domains.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to grant writing efforts.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Systems Biology, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Bioengineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research experience in developing computational models for biological systems.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or C++.
• Experience with modeling software and frameworks (e.g., COPASI, CellDesigner, SBML).
• Solid understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry.
• Experience with statistical analysis and data integration techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proven publication record.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement plan, and support for professional development.
• The role is based in **Bloemfontein**, Free State, ZA, providing access to a vibrant scientific community.
• You will work with cutting-edge computational resources and collaborate with leading researchers in the field.
• Additional benefits include performance-based bonuses, generous vacation time, and opportunities to attend key scientific conferences.
• This position presents an outstanding opportunity to make significant contributions to the field of systems biology within a supportive and innovative research environment.