Senior Biologist - Cell & Gene Therapy

Placements24; Watnall; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Biologist to join our client’s research team in Kimberley, South Africa. The role focuses on advancing cell and gene therapy candidates through experimental design, data analysis, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate will lead complex experiments, culture primary cells and stem cells, and employ CRISPR/Cas9 and related delivery methods. Strong communication and independent work style are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years post‑doctoral research experience in an academic or industry setting, focused on cell and gene therapy.
• Experience with cell culture including primary cells and stem cells.
• Hands-on expertise with gene editing technologies (CRISPR/Cas9) and viral/non‑viral gene delivery methods.
• Proficiency in a range of molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Experience with data analysis software and tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimise, and execute complex biological experiments related to cell and gene therapy development.
• Perform in vitro assays to evaluate the efficacy, potency, and safety of therapeutic candidates.
• Culture and manipulate primary human cells, stem cells, and genetically modified cell lines.
• Utilise molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and flow cytometry.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, drawing sound conclusions and proposing next steps.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and develop robust protocols.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including molecular biologists, immunologists, and process development scientists.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and contribute to reports, presentations, and publications.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication

Independent and collaborative

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or related

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9

Flow cytometry

PCR

Western blotting

ELISA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the development of cutting-edge cell and gene therapies, is seeking a talented Senior Biologist to join their innovative research team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This critical role will involve driving the research and development of novel therapeutic candidates. The Senior Biologist will be responsible for designing and executing experiments, analysing data, and contributing to the advancement of gene editing and cell therapy technologies. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on transformative treatments that have the potential to cure devastating diseases. The role requires dedicated on-site laboratory work, fostering close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of scientists.

Key Responsibilities

Design, optimise, and execute complex biological experiments related to cell and gene therapy development. Perform in vitro assays to evaluate the efficacy, potency, and safety of therapeutic candidates. Culture and manipulate primary human cells, stem cells, and genetically modified cell lines. Utilize molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and flow cytometry. Analyse and interpret experimental data, drawing sound conclusions and proposing next steps. Troubleshoot experimental challenges and develop robust protocols. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including molecular biologists, immunologists, and process development scientists. Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications. Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements in cell and gene therapy, CRISPR technology, and related fields. Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and company policies.

Requirements

PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related discipline. Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral research experience in an academic or industry setting, with a focus on cell and gene therapy. Proven experience with cell culture, including primary cells and stem cells. Hands‑on expertise in gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9) and viral/non‑viral gene delivery methods. Proficiency in a range of molecular and cellular biology techniques. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with meticulous attention to detail. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Experience with data analysis software and tools. A strong passion for scientific discovery and the development of novel therapeutics.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance bonuses. Opportunities for professional growth through training, workshops, and attendance at scientific conferences are provided. The company fosters a collaborative and innovative research environment.