Lead Research Scientist - Infectious Diseases

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Access to research infrastructure

Leadership training

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto seeks a Lead Research Scientist to head the Infectious Diseases group. You will direct research projects, shape strategy, and drive translational outcomes to prevent and treat infectious agents.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 7+ years in infectious disease research, proven leadership, grant writing prowess, and the ability to inspire a diverse team. Strong collaboration with academia and public health partners is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Immunology, Virology or related field with infectious diseases focus.
• Minimum 7 years in infectious disease research with leadership track record.
• Expertise in pathogen biology, host–pathogen interactions, or vaccine development.
• Proven grant writing and funding acquisition experience.
• Proven ability to lead projects and manage research teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a research team focused on infectious diseases, including virology, bacteriology and parasitology.
• Design and implement innovative research strategies to identify therapeutic and prophylactic targets.
• Oversee experimental design, execution, data analysis and interpretation.
• Secure grant funding and manage research budgets effectively.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to advance programs.
• Mentor and develop junior staff, fostering scientific excellence and collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Grant writing

Communication

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD in Microbiology/Immunology/Virology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Lead Research Scientist to head their Infectious Diseases research group in Soweto . This leadership position will involve directing research efforts focused on understanding, preventing, and treating infectious agents. You will manage a team of scientists, oversee the strategic direction of research projects, and foster collaborations with academic institutions and public health organizations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background in infectious diseases and a proven ability to lead and inspire a research team, making significant contributions to global health from Soweto .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a research team focused on infectious diseases , including virology, bacteriology, and parasitology.
• Design and implement innovative research strategies to identify novel therapeutic and prophylactic targets.
• Oversee experimental design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation for research projects.
• Secure grant funding and manage research budgets effectively.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to advance research programs.
• Mentor and develop junior research staff, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaboration.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, or a related field with a strong focus on infectious diseases .
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in infectious disease research, with a proven track record of leadership.
• Expertise in one or more areas of infectious disease research (e.g., pathogen biology, host‑pathogen interactions, vaccine development).
• Demonstrated experience in grant writing and successful funding acquisition.
• Proven ability to manage research projects and lead scientific teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead critical research in infectious diseases and impact public health.
• Access to advanced research infrastructure and collaborative networks in Soweto .
• Support for professional development, including leadership training and conference attendance.
• A stimulating and impactful research environment with a focus on global health challenges.