Lead Molecular Biologist, Protein Engineering (Hybrid)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Healthcare

Professional development

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng is seeking a Lead Molecular Biologist to drive protein engineering research, mentoring a team and guiding experimental design to deliver novel therapeutics and industrial enzymes. You will oversee cloning, expression, purification, and characterization, collaborate with cross‑functional scientists, and contribute to strategic plans while ensuring safety and compliance.

This hybrid role offers remote work option with in-lab collaboration and opportunities for

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering or related field.
• 7+ years of post‑doc and industry experience in molecular biology and protein engineering.
• Proven leadership experience managing scientific teams and projects.
• Hands-on experience with cloning, site-directed mutagenesis and gene synthesis.
• Expertise in protein expression systems and purification techniques.
• Experience with protein characterization methods (SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, MS).
• Knowledge of directed evolution and computational protein design.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of molecular biologists and research associates focused on protein engineering projects.
• Design and execute experiments for protein expression, purification, characterization, and functional validation.
• Develop and implement novel strategies for protein modification, directed evolution, and rational design to enhance protein properties.
• Oversee the development of high-throughput screening assays for protein activity and stability.
• Analyze complex experimental data, interpret results, and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including structural biologists, biochemists, and process development scientists.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of research programs and identify new opportunities for innovation.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and prepare detailed reports and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Experimental design

Data interpretation

Communication

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

Molecular cloning

Site-directed mutagenesis

Gene synthesis

Protein expression (E. coli/yeast/mammalian)

Chromatography

Protein characterization (SDS-PAGE, Western, ELISA, MS)

Job description

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng is seeking a Lead Molecular Biologist to drive protein engineering research, mentoring a team and guiding experimental design to deliver novel therapeutics and industrial enzymes. You will oversee cloning, expression, purification, and characterization, collaborate with cross‑functional scientists, and contribute to strategic plans while ensuring safety and compliance.

This hybrid role offers remote work option with in-lab collaboration and opportunities for