Post-Doctoral Research Fellow (12 Months' Contract - Wits Samrc - Agtru)

Findojobs South Africa; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Johannesburg seeks a researcher for optimising lipid nanoparticle mRNA formulations. Candidates should hold a PhD in Molecular Biology or Biochemistry, with practical experience in molecular biology. Experience in cell culture is advantageous. The role focuses on innovative vaccine development and requires strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Practical experience with molecular biology and/or biochemistry research.
• Experience with cell culture will be valuable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on optimising lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA formulations.
• Be part of a multidisciplinary team applying synthetic organic chemistry.
• Meet reporting deadlines.

Skills

Experience working in a molecular biology / biochemistry research laboratory

Familiarity with biohazardous materials

Experience in mammalian cell culture

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or similar field

Job description

Division :

• Wits / SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit (AGTRU)

Main purpose of the job :

The candidate will be responsible for carrying out research on optimising lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA formulations that incorporate novel compounds derived from bio-renewable sources.

The incumbent will be part of a multidisciplinary team that applies synthetic organic chemistry to develop new mRNA vaccines and therapies.

Location :

University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, Johannesburg

Key performance areas :

• Experience with working in a molecular biology / biochemistry research laboratory, operating electrical and non-electrical laboratory equipment.
• Familiarity with requirements for work with biohazardous material and working aseptically.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and animal husbandry.
• Carry out research on optimising lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA formulations that incorporate novel compounds derived from bio-renewable sources.
• Ability to meet reporting deadlines.

Required minimum education and training :

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or similar field.

Required minimum work experience :

• Practical experience with molecular biology and / or biochemistry research.

Desirable additional education, work experience and personal abilities :

• Experience with cell culture will be valuable.
• Written and verbal scientific communication skills.
• Ability to meet reporting deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

TO APPLY :

• Only if you meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV.
• Please apply online and complete your registration via our website to enable and protect you as a candidate, and to accept the new POPIA terms and conditions.
• This will then create your permanent profile with which you can apply for all jobs as advertised by AJ Personnel.
• However, you may remove your profile from AJ Personnel when you are no longer in the job market.
• Please note that applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position.
• Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates.
• Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful.
• Closing date : 30 July 2025.
• Note : No CV will be accepted after the closing date.

Please note :

• WHC, in accordance with its Employment Equity goals and plan, will give preference to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.
• AJ Personnel is only responsible for advertising and response handling on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium.
• AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position.