Lead Molecular Biologist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Conference attendance

Access to cutting-edge equipment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead research initiatives in its Cape Town facility. You will direct a team of scientists, design and execute cutting-edge molecular biology experiments, and shape the scientific direction of major projects to deliver high-quality data.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field with at least 6 years of hands-on experience, leadership skills, and collaboration with computational biology and pharmacology teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques and research.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a scientific team.
• Strong understanding of molecular pathways relevant to human disease.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and scientific literature review.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists, overseeing daily laboratory operations and experimental planning.
• Design and execute complex molecular biology experiments, including gene cloning, PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to internal teams and stakeholders.
• Develop and optimize new molecular assays and protocols to meet project goals.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards and regulatory guidelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including computational biology and pharmacology, to advance research programs.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

Gene cloning

PCR

qPCR

Western blotting

Cell-based assays

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead research initiatives in their state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town . This leadership role involves directing a team of scientists in the design and execution of cutting-edge molecular biology experiments aimed at discovering and validating novel therapeutic targets. You will play a critical role in shaping the scientific direction of key projects, ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality data, and fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating research environment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of molecular mechanisms and a passion for translating scientific discoveries into potential clinical applications within a dynamic setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists, overseeing daily laboratory operations and experimental planning.
• Design and execute complex molecular biology experiments, including gene cloning, PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to internal teams and stakeholders.
• Develop and optimize new molecular assays and protocols to meet project goals.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards and regulatory guidelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including computational biology and pharmacology, to advance research programs.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in molecular biology techniques and research.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a scientific team.
• Strong understanding of molecular pathways relevant to human disease.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and scientific literature review.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem‑solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional growth and attendance at scientific conferences.
• Access to cutting‑edge laboratory equipment and technologies.