Lead Molecular Biologist

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Access to advanced instrumentation

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, is seeking a Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead groundbreaking research initiatives in a state-of-the-art facility. You will guide a team of researchers in developing molecular technologies for diagnostics and therapeutics, shaping scientific direction and upholding research integrity in a collaborative R&D setting.

This leadership role offers mentorship, advanced instrumentation access, and the opportunity to influence projects from discovery to

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive research experience in molecular biology, incl. 2+ years in leadership.
• Hands-on experience with a wide range of molecular biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Ability to design and execute complex research projects independently.
• Strong genomics, epigenetics, and gene expression analysis knowledge.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of molecular biologists, providing scientific direction and mentorship.
• Design and implement complex molecular biology experiments and research strategies.
• Develop and optimize molecular assays including PCR, qPCR, sequencing, and gene editing.
• Oversee procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment and consumables.
• Analyze and interpret genomic and transcriptomic data to guide research.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics and R&D to advance projects from discovery to preclinical stages.

Skills

Leadership

Mentorship

Communication

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

PCR

qPCR

DNA Sequencing

Gene Editing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead groundbreaking research initiatives in their state-of-the-art facility in George . This leadership position involves guiding a team of skilled researchers in the exploration and development of novel molecular technologies with applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. You will be instrumental in shaping the scientific direction of key projects, ensuring the highest standards of research integrity and innovation. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant contribution to the future of molecular science and to mentor a dedicated team within a highly collaborative R&D setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of molecular biologists, providing scientific direction, mentorship, and performance oversight.
• Design and implement complex molecular biology experiments and research strategies to achieve project goals.
• Develop and optimize novel molecular assays, including PCR, qPCR, DNA sequencing, and gene editing techniques.
• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment and consumables for the molecular biology group.
• Analyze and interpret complex genomic and transcriptomic data, drawing actionable conclusions for research direction.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including bioinformatics and R&D management, to advance projects from discovery to preclinical stages.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive research experience in molecular biology, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of molecular biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex research projects independently.
• Strong understanding of genomics, epigenetics, and gene expression analysis.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership skills.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave and holiday allowances.
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and advanced training.
• Access to advanced molecular biology instrumentation and a dynamic research environment in George .