Junior Research Scientist

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development funding

Career pathway to senior roles

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Junior Research Scientist for a biotechnology firm in Kimberley, South Africa. The role targets recent graduates with a Master’s or PhD in relevant life sciences, focusing on experimental design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation to boost crop yields and sustainability.

You will work under senior scientists, gain hands-on experience with lab techniques, and contribute to projects in agricultural science.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Molecular Biology, Plant Science, Agronomy, Biotechnology, or related life science.
• Strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in experimental design.
• Proficiency in lab techniques (PCR, gene sequencing, microscopy, cell culture).
• Experience with data analysis software (R, SPSS, GraphPad Prism).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Meticulous attention to detail and organization.
• Familiarity with agricultural research practices is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments and fieldwork according to research protocols.
• Collect, organize, and analyze scientific data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments in lab notebooks.
• Prepare scientific reports, presentations, and publications.
• Assist in design and execution of new research projects.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and technicians.
• Stay abreast of latest literature and advancements.
• Contribute to troubleshooting experimental challenges and problem-solving.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Laboratory techniques

Written and verbal communication

Independent work

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Scientific curiosity

Agricultural research familiarity

Education

Master's or PhD in Molecular Biology / Plant Science / Agronomy / Biotechnology or related life science

Tools

PCR

Gene sequencing

Microscopy

Cell culture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biotechnology firm renowned for its innovative research in agricultural science, is seeking an enthusiastic and meticulous Junior Research Scientist for their state-of-the-art facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is perfect for recent graduates holding a Master's or PhD in a relevant scientific discipline, eager to contribute to groundbreaking research and development. You will be involved in experimental design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, contributing to projects focused on enhancing crop yields and sustainability. Working under the guidance of senior scientists, you will gain invaluable experience in laboratory techniques, research methodologies, and scientific communication. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of agriculture and food security within the Northern Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments and fieldwork according to research protocols.
• Collect, organize, and analyze scientific data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments and findings in lab notebooks.
• Prepare scientific reports, presentations, and publications.
• Assist in the design and execution of new research projects.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and technicians.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and advancements in the field.
• Contribute to troubleshooting experimental challenges and problem-solving.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards and protocols.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Molecular Biology, Plant Science, Agronomy, Biotechnology, or a related life science field.
• Strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in experimental design and execution.
• Proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques (e.g., PCR, gene sequencing, microscopy, cell culture).
• Experience with data analysis software (e.g., R, SPSS, GraphPad Prism).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Passion for scientific discovery and innovation.
• Familiarity with agricultural research practices is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan. Employees benefit from significant opportunities for professional development, including funding for further education, conference attendance, and access to advanced training programs. The company fosters a dynamic and intellectually stimulating research environment in Kimberley . This role provides a clear career path towards senior research positions and leadership within the R&D department. Join a leading organization dedicated to advancing agricultural science and contributing to the sustainable development of the Northern Cape .