Principal Geneticist

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement provisions

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape is seeking a Principal Geneticist to lead complex genetic and genomic research, develop diagnostic tools, and guide a team of researchers in a state-of-the-art facility.

Based on-site in George, you will collaborate with clinical partners, publish in high-impact journals, manage budgets, and ensure ethical and regulatory compliance while advancing hereditary disease understanding.

Qualifications

• PhD in Genetics, Human Genetics, or related field.
• 10+ years post-doctoral research experience in human genetics or related discipline.
• Proven track record in developing and validating genetic tests for clinical use.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and publications in high-impact journals.
• Experience with bioinformatics software and statistics is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, execution, and interpretation of complex genetic and genomic studies.
• Develop and validate new genetic assays and diagnostic platforms.
• Oversee data analysis, ensuring accuracy and rigor.
• Mentor a team of geneticists, bioinformaticians, and researchers.
• Collaborate with clinical partners to translate research into diagnostics.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Manage budgets and resources for projects in George lab.
• Ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and regulatory standards.
• Stay current with genomics and gene editing advancements.

Skills

Leadership

Genomic data analysis

Population genetics

Scientific communication

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Genetics or related field

Tools

R

Python

Genomic analysis tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a pioneering force in personalized medicine and genetic diagnostics, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Geneticist to lead critical research initiatives at their state-of-the-art facility in George, Western Cape. This senior position involves overseeing complex genetic research projects, developing novel diagnostic tools, and contributing to the advancement of our understanding of hereditary diseases. The Principal Geneticist will be instrumental in shaping the scientific direction of the department, mentoring a team of talented researchers, and fostering a collaborative environment dedicated to scientific excellence. Based in George, Western Cape, this role demands a strong on-site presence to leverage our advanced laboratory infrastructure and facilitate direct collaboration with laboratory teams. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in translating genomic discoveries into clinical applications, thereby impacting patient care significantly. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking organization at the forefront of genetic innovation and contribute to life-changing scientific breakthroughs within the vibrant scientific community of George, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of complex genetic and genomic research studies.
• Develop and validate new genetic assays and diagnostic platforms for a range of inherited conditions.
• Oversee data analysis and interpretation, ensuring accuracy and scientific rigor.
• Mentor and guide a team of geneticists, bioinformaticians, and research assistants.
• Collaborate with clinical partners to translate research findings into actionable diagnostic insights.
• Author and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Manage research budgets and resource allocation for assigned projects within the George, Western Cape laboratory.
• Ensure adherence to all ethical guidelines, regulatory standards, and quality control measures.
• Stay current with advancements in genomics, gene editing technologies, and related fields.

Requirements

• PhD in Genetics, Human Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience in human genetics or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in human genetic variation analysis, including population genetics, linkage analysis, and whole-genome/exome sequencing.
• Proven experience in developing and validating genetic tests for clinical application.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of mentoring junior scientists.
• Excellent publication record in high-impact journals.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools and statistical genetics software is essential.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
• Must be eligible to work permanently in South Africa and based in George, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions, and a relocation assistance package if applicable.
• Opportunities for career advancement, continuous professional development, and participation in international scientific forums are provided.
• Access to state-of-the-art research technology and a supportive, innovative work environment in George, Western Cape are also key benefits.