Lead Scientist - Biotechnology & Genomics

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & bonuses

Stock options

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Paid time off

Centurion facilities

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Scientist in Biotechnology and Genomics based in Centurion, Gauteng. You will lead a team of scientists, manage complex projects, and help develop novel diagnostic tools and therapeutics.

The role features a dynamic hybrid work model with essential on-site lab work in Centurion and flexible remote data analysis and collaboration. The ideal candidate has a PhD and 6+ years in genomics with strong leadership and publication record.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in genetics, molecular biology, biotechnology or related field.
• 6+ years of post-PhD experience in genomics research or industry.
• Proven leadership of research teams and projects.
• Expertise in NGS technologies and data interpretation.
• Strong bioinformatics skills and programming proficiency (Python, R).
• Publication track record in high-impact journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists and research associates in genomics and biotechnology.
• Design, implement, and manage complex research projects focused on genetic analysis and molecular mechanisms.
• Develop and validate novel genomic assays and bioinformatics pipelines.
• Oversee the execution of high-throughput sequencing experiments and data analysis.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., bioinformatics, clinical development) and external partners.
• Interpret large-scale genomic datasets to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
• Contribute to strategic planning of the R&D pipeline and research direction.
• Prepare and present research findings to scientific committees, management, and at conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety standards, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics.

Skills

Genomics

Biotechnology

Leadership

NGS

Bioinformatics

Python

R

Bash

Education

Ph.D. in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics

Tools

NGS platforms

Bioinformatics pipelines

Unix/Linux

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm at the forefront of biotechnology innovation, is seeking an experienced Lead Scientist specializing in Biotechnology and Genomics.

Based in Centurion, Gauteng , this role is crucial for driving forward our client's groundbreaking research in genetic analysis and molecular biology. You will lead a dedicated team of scientists, manage complex research projects, and contribute to the development of novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies.

This position offers a dynamic Hybrid work model, allowing for essential on-site laboratory work in Centurion, Gauteng , combined with flexible remote access for data analysis and collaboration. We are committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and discovery, providing state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive environment for groundbreaking work.

The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in genomic research and a passion for translating scientific findings into impactful real-world solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity to make significant contributions to the future of healthcare and life sciences.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists and research associates in genomics and biotechnology.
• Design, implement, and manage complex research projects focused on genetic analysis and molecular mechanisms.
• Develop and validate novel genomic assays and bioinformatics pipelines.
• Oversee the execution of high-throughput sequencing experiments and data analysis.
• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., bioinformatics, clinical development) and external partners.
• Interpret large-scale genomic datasets to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the R&D pipeline and research direction.
• Prepare and present research findings to scientific committees, management, and at conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety standards, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in genomics research.
• Proven experience in leading and managing research teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and platforms.
• Strong understanding of genetic variation analysis, population genetics, and functional genomics.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, Bash).
• Experience with data visualization and statistical analysis of large datasets.
• Excellent track record of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative, and multidisciplinary environment.
• Experience with CRISPR technology or other gene editing tools is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses and potential stock options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided, along with a robust retirement savings plan.
• We are dedicated to employee growth, offering significant opportunities for professional development, conference attendance, and continuous learning.
• Generous paid time off is standard.
• Our cutting-edge research facilities in Centurion, Gauteng provide an inspiring and well-equipped environment for scientific advancement.
• Wellness programs and a supportive work culture are integral parts of our employee experience.