Lead Gene Sequencing Scientist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career development opportunities

Cape Town-based role

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a leading genetics research institution in Cape Town to recruit a Lead Gene Sequencing Scientist. You will oversee the gene sequencing lab, design experiments, ensure quality, and drive innovation in diagnostic tools.

You will manage a team of scientists and technicians, collaborating with molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians to shape sequencing programs in a cutting-edge environment.

Qualifications

• PhD required in molecular biology/related field.
• 7+ years hands-on gene sequencing experience, 3+ years in leadership.
• Experience with diverse NGS platforms and library prep kits.
• Strong project leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage daily sequencing lab operations.
• Develop, validate, and implement sequencing protocols (NGS, Sanger).
• Oversee QC/QA of all sequencing data.
• Collaborate with biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians to define goals.
• Troubleshoot sequencing library prep and instrument issues.
• Stay abreast of new sequencing tech and bioinformatics advances.
• Manage budget, inventory, and procurement of reagents/equipment.
• Contribute to grant writing, manuscripts, and presentations.
• Ensure safety regulations and lab standards are followed.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team management

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

Illumina

PacBio

Oxford Nanopore

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in genetic research, is seeking an exceptional Lead Gene Sequencing Scientist to spearhead their advanced sequencing initiatives in the beautiful city of **Cape Town**. This high-impact position will involve overseeing all aspects of gene sequencing operations, from experimental design to data analysis, ensuring the highest standards of quality and innovation. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in various sequencing technologies and a proven track record of leading successful research projects. You will be responsible for managing a team of dedicated scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, and contributing to the development of novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. This role is critical to advancing our client's mission in **Cape Town, Western Cape**, and offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of genetic medicine.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the gene sequencing laboratory, including staff supervision and workflow optimization.
• Develop, validate, and implement advanced gene sequencing protocols and methodologies (e.g., NGS, Sanger sequencing).
• Oversee the quality control and assurance processes for all sequencing data generated.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians, to define project goals and interpret results.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues related to sequencing library preparation and instrument performance.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in sequencing technology and bioinformatics, and integrate them into lab practices.
• Manage laboratory budget, inventory, and procurement of reagents and equipment.
• Contribute to grant writing, manuscript preparation, and presentation of findings.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and laboratory standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in gene sequencing, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of diverse NGS platforms (e.g., Illumina, PacBio, Oxford Nanopore) and library preparation kits.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, and DNA/RNA isolation.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis and data interpretation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects, resources, and personnel effectively.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, essential for reporting and collaboration.
• Experience working in **Cape Town** or a similar research-intensive environment is advantageous.
• A passion for innovation and a commitment to scientific excellence are essential.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive remuneration package, an excellent benefits scheme including medical aid and retirement fund, and substantial opportunities for career advancement and further training. You will have access to cutting-edge sequencing technology and a supportive environment that encourages professional growth. This role is based in the scenic **Cape Town**, offering a unique lifestyle balance.

Equal Opportunity

Our client is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.