Lead Molecular Biologist - Genomics Research

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Excellent medical coverage

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead genomics research, design experiments, and set the scientific agenda.

You will lead a team, develop assays including NGS library prep, whole-genome and exome sequencing, RNA-Seq, and collaborate with bioinformatics to interpret data for high-impact projects.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral or industry experience with a strong focus on genomics and molecular biology.
• Proven experience in leading and managing a research team.
• Extensive hands-on experience with various NGS platforms and library preparation methods.
• Proficiency in bioinformatic analysis tools and pipelines for genomic data interpretation.
• Strong understanding of human genetics, disease mechanisms, and population genetics.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists and technicians engaged in genomics research.
• Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge genomics assays, including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation, whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, and RNA-Seq.
• Oversee the collection, processing, and analysis of large-scale genomic datasets.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to interpret genomic data and identify key genetic variations, mutations, and regulatory elements.
• Develop and validate novel molecular biology protocols to address specific research questions.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, reagents, and budgets, ensuring efficient and compliant operations.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and ethical guidelines.

Skills

Leadership & team management

Genomics & molecular biology

Bioinformatics pipelines

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology/Genomics/Genetics

Tools

NGS platforms

Bioinformatics tools

RNA-Seq / WGS / Exome sequencing knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned research institution, is seeking an exceptional Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead innovative genomics research in **Cape Town, Western Cape**. This critical role involves leading a team of dedicated scientists in exploring the frontiers of genetic analysis and its application to complex diseases. You will be responsible for setting the research agenda, guiding experimental design, and ensuring the successful execution of high-impact projects. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of molecular biology techniques, extensive experience in genomics, and a passion for unraveling the genetic underpinnings of biological processes. This is a leadership opportunity within a highly collaborative and resource-rich environment, focused on making significant contributions to the field of genomics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists and technicians engaged in genomics research.
• Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge genomics assays, including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation, whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, and RNA-Seq.
• Oversee the collection, processing, and analysis of large-scale genomic datasets.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to interpret genomic data and identify key genetic variations, mutations, and regulatory elements.
• Develop and validate novel molecular biology protocols to address specific research questions.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, reagents, and budgets, ensuring efficient and compliant operations.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Ensure adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral or industry experience with a strong focus on genomics and molecular biology.
• Proven experience in leading and managing a research team.
• Extensive hands-on experience with various NGS platforms and library preparation methods.
• Proficiency in bioinformatic analysis tools and pipelines for genomic data interpretation.
• Strong understanding of human genetics, disease mechanisms, and population genetics.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment in **Cape Town, Western Cape**.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive compensation package, excellent medical coverage, and substantial opportunities for professional growth and development. This role offers the chance to work with state-of-the-art genomic technologies and contribute to transformative research. Researchers in **Cape Town, Western Cape** are part of a vibrant scientific community.