Lead Agricultural Biotechnology Researcher - Plant Genomics

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid coverage

Pension fund

Research grants funding

Professional development

International collaborations

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng is seeking an Agricultural Biotechnology Researcher to lead cutting-edge crop-improvement projects. You will design experiments, manage labs, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in plant biotechnology or related field, at least 5 years post‑doctoral experience, and a strong track record in molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years post‑doctoral research experience in agricultural biotechnology or crop improvement.
• Proven expertise in molecular biology, plant genetics, and genetic engineering.
• Strong experience with bioinformatics analysis of large genomic and transcriptomic data.
• Publications in reputable journals and presentations at international conferences.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong project management and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• GMO regulatory processes experience is advantageous.
• Knowledge of SA agricultural research landscape is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute plant biotech experiments including genetic engineering, marker-assisted selection, and tissue culture.
• Develop protocols for gene expression analysis, DNA sequencing, and molecular breeding techniques.
• Characterize and evaluate performance of improved crop varieties under field conditions.
• Contribute to strategies for disease resistance, drought tolerance, and enhanced nutrition.
• Analyze data using bioinformatics tools and statistics.
• Maintain lab records and prepare reports.
• Collaborate with national and international partners on research projects.
• Present findings at conferences and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and ethics in biotech research.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students.

Skills

Bioinformatics

Molecular biology

Plant genetics

Genetic engineering

Analytical skills

Critical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology or related field

Job description

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng is seeking an Agricultural Biotechnology Researcher to lead cutting-edge crop-improvement projects. You will design experiments, manage labs, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in plant biotechnology or related field, at least 5 years post‑doctoral experience, and a strong track record in molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics.