Lead Genomics Scientist - Research Leader Western Cape

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with employer matching

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Genomics Scientist in George, Western Cape, to lead advanced genomics initiatives. The role requires directing projects from design through execution, mentoring staff, and collaborating with scientists and clinicians.

Expertise in NGS, data analysis, and interpretation is essential for uncovering novel genomic insights. The candidate will oversee diverse sequencing applications, drive methodological innovations, and contribute to publications and grant proposals

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, or closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive genomics experience with a strong publication record.
• Extensive hands-on experience with NGS platforms (Illumina, PacBio) and library prep techniques.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools for sequence alignment, variant calling, and data analysis (GATK, samtools, IGV).
• Strong programming skills in Python or R for data manipulation and analysis.
• Experience interpreting genomic data in human disease, agriculture, or related areas.
• Proven leadership in managing research projects and teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Familiarity with data management and storage for large genomic datasets.
• Genome assembly and annotation experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple genomics research projects with timely delivery.
• Design and optimize NGS protocols (WGS, exome, RNA-seq, ChIP-seq).
• Oversee processing and analysis of large genomic datasets using bioinformatics tools.
• Interpret genomic data to identify variations, functional associations, and regulatory mechanisms.
• Collaborate with molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians.
• Develop and validate new genomic assays and analysis methods.
• Mentor junior staff and foster professional development.
• Contribute to publications, grant proposals, and technical reports.
• Ensure compliance with ethical, safety, and data privacy regulations.
• Present findings at national and international conferences.

Skills

Python

R

Bioinformatics

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in Genetics/Genomics/Bioinformatics

Tools

GATK

Samtools

IGV

Illumina

PacBio

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Genomics Scientist in George, Western Cape, to lead advanced genomics initiatives. The role requires directing projects from design through execution, mentoring staff, and collaborating with scientists and clinicians.

Expertise in NGS, data analysis, and interpretation is essential for uncovering novel genomic insights. The candidate will oversee diverse sequencing applications, drive methodological innovations, and contribute to publications and grant proposals