Lead Molecular Biologist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.600.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Mossel Bay seeks a Lead Molecular Biologist to direct R&D activities and oversee a team of scientists in the development of novel therapeutics and diagnostics. The role emphasizes deep molecular biology expertise, leadership, and a track record of delivering research outcomes in a regulated setting.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD with 7+ years in molecular biology, including CRISPR, PCR/qPCR, cloning, and sequencing, plus strong data analysis and communication skills.

Formación

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry or a related life sciences field.
• Minimum 7 years of hands-on molecular biology research with 3+ years in leadership.
• Strong expertise in gene expression, sequencing, PCR/qPCR, cloning and CRISPR.
• Experience managing research projects, experimental design and data analysis.
• Familiarity with genomics, transcriptomics and epigenetics; GLP familiarity desirable.

Responsabilidades

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists in daily research activities.
• Design and optimize protocols for gene expression analysis and sequencing.
• Oversee data interpretation, ensure reproducibility and accuracy of results.
• Guide strategic direction of R&D programs and identify new opportunities.
• Manage lab resources, budgets, and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and prepare scientific reports.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Team management

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Communication

Problem solving

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Educación

PhD in Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry

Herramientas

Bioinformatics tools

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic biotechnology firm located in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Molecular Biologist to direct and oversee critical research and development activities. This senior role involves leading a team of skilled scientists in the exploration and application of molecular biology techniques for novel therapeutic and diagnostic development. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of molecular mechanisms, genetics, and genomics, with a proven ability to manage complex research projects and drive scientific innovation. This is an exceptional opportunity to make significant contributions to life sciences from Mossel Bay.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists in day-to-day research activities and project execution.
• Design, develop, and optimize experimental protocols for gene expression analysis, DNA/RNA sequencing, PCR, cloning, and other molecular techniques.
• Oversee the interpretation of experimental data and ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of results.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of R&D programs, identifying new research avenues and opportunities.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, reagents, and budgets, ensuring efficient operation.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including biochemists, geneticists, and bioinformaticians.
• Prepare technical reports, research summaries, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and implement effective solutions.
• Stay current with advancements in molecular biology, genetics, and related fields.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related life sciences discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on research experience in molecular biology, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive expertise in various molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid isolation, PCR/qPCR, cloning, gene editing (CRISPR), and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Proven experience in managing research projects, including experimental design, execution, and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenetics.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and strong interpersonal skills for team management.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis is a plus.
• Familiarity with relevant regulatory guidelines (e.g., GLP) is desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, potential for performance bonuses, and comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• This includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with a retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off is provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and specialized training, are strongly supported.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates relocating to Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
• This is an exciting role for an ambitious scientist in Mossel Bay.