Remote Senior Molecular Biologist - Genetic Engineering

Placements24; Queenstown; Remote; NZD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote position

Competitive salary and incentives

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Molecular Biologist to join its fully remote research team. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing genetic engineering strategies and molecular assays within pre-clinical programs.

The candidate will lead complex experiments using CRISPR/Cas9, cloning, and multiple molecular biology techniques, while contributing to IP development and scientific publications in a remote setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Molecular Biology or related life science field.
• Minimum 6 years of post-graduate research experience in molecular biology focusing on genetic engineering.
• Hands-on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 or other gene editing systems.
• Experience with cloning, plasmid design and molecular cloning techniques.
• Proficiency in molecular biology methods (PCR, qPCR, gene expression analysis).
• Strong written and verbal communication for remote collaboration and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute gene editing experiments (CRISPR/Cas9), gene synthesis, and cloning.
• Develop and optimize assays to measure gene expression and protein activity.
• Utilize PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, Western blotting, and flow cytometry for data generation.
• Analyze complex biological data and propose actionable next steps.
• Mentor junior researchers and share expertise within a remote team.

Skills

Analytical skills

Remote collaboration

Time management

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. or M.S. in Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9

PCR/qPCR/ddPCR

Western blotting

Flow cytometry

Plasmid design

Job description

About the Role Our client is a cutting-edge biotechnology company focused on leveraging genetic engineering to develop novel therapeutics and diagnostics. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Molecular Biologist to join our fully remote research team. This role is essential for designing, implementing, and optimizing complex genetic engineering strategies and molecular assays. You will contribute significantly to our pre-clinical research programs, working on innovative projects that push the boundaries of genetic medicine. This position is perfect for an experienced molecular biologist who thrives in a remote-first environment, possesses a strong understanding of gene editing technologies, and is passionate about advancing cutting-edge biological research. If you are driven by scientific discovery and excel in a collaborative, virtual setting, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments involving gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9), gene synthesis, and molecular cloning.
• Develop and optimize assays for measuring gene expression, protein activity, and cellular responses.
• Utilize advanced molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, Western blotting, and flow cytometry.
• Analyze and interpret complex biological data, drawing sound conclusions and proposing next steps.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and devise creative solutions to ensure project progression.
• Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, including geneticists, cell biologists, and bioinformaticians.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and prepare detailed reports and presentations of research findings.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and emerging technologies in molecular biology and genetic engineering.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and support publication efforts.
• Mentor junior researchers and share expertise within the team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-graduate research experience in molecular biology, with a strong focus on genetic engineering.
• Proven hands‑on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 or other gene editing systems.
• Extensive experience with cloning, molecular cloning techniques, and plasmid design.
• Proficiency in a range of molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, gene expression analysis, etc.).
• Strong understanding of gene function, regulation, and genetic pathways.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, essential for remote collaboration and scientific documentation.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and drive projects forward in a remote setting.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques is required.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• We invest in our employees' professional growth through continuous learning opportunities, conference attendance, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions.
• You will work on groundbreaking research with the potential to create significant advancements in medicine.
• Enjoy a collaborative and stimulating scientific environment, despite the distributed nature of the team.
• Our client is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive remote work culture, ensuring employee well-being and career satisfaction.