Principal Research Scientist - Biotechnology

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Stock options

Professional development

Remote work

Cutting-edge tools

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Research Scientist role in Centurion, South Africa, to lead innovative projects in synthetic biology and genetic engineering. You will define research strategies, guide experiments, and mentor a team of scientists in a remote-first environment.

The role offers access to state-of-the-art genomics platforms, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and opportunities to publish, patent, and contribute to a dynamic biotech portfolio.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline.
• 8+ years of postdoctoral and/or industry R&D experience in biotechnology.
• Expertise in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and/or metabolic engineering.
• Experience leading and designing complex research projects with data analysis.
• Proficiency with bioinformatics tools and genomic/proteomic data.
• Experience with PCR, cloning, gene editing (CRISPR), and cell culture.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in remote teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative research programs in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and gene editing.
• Lead a team of scientists in designing and executing complex experiments, troubleshooting challenges, and interpreting results.
• Establish and optimize protocols for high-throughput screening and data analysis.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to achieve project goals.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in biotechnology.
• Prepare high-quality manuscripts for publication and present findings at major conferences.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent filings and strategic research direction.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of scientific rigor, creativity, and collaboration.
• Ensure rigorous data integrity and adherence to all relevant regulatory and ethical guidelines.

Skills

Genetic engineering

Synthetic biology

Metabolic engineering

Bioinformatics

PCR

Cloning

CRISPR

Cell culture

Leadership

Communication

Remote collaboration

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology

Tools

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned biotechnology research firm located in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA , is seeking an exceptional Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative projects in the field of synthetic biology and genetic engineering. This senior role is ideal for a seasoned researcher with a passion for translating cutting-edge discoveries into impactful biotechnological solutions. You will be responsible for defining research strategies, guiding experimental design, and mentoring a team of highly skilled scientists. The position offers the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art genomics platforms and bio-manufacturing technologies. We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics, who can drive complex research programs from conception to completion. This is a remote-first position, offering unparalleled flexibility while contributing to groundbreaking work in biotechnology in Centurion .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative research programs in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and gene editing.
• Lead a team of scientists in designing and executing complex experiments, troubleshooting challenges, and interpreting results.
• Establish and optimize protocols for high-throughput screening and data analysis.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including computational biologists, chemists, and engineers, to achieve project goals.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in biotechnology and related fields.
• Prepare high-quality manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and present findings at major conferences.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent filings and strategic research direction.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of scientific rigor, creativity, and collaboration.
• Ensure rigorous data integrity and adherence to all relevant regulatory and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of postdoctoral and/or industry experience with a strong focus on R&D in biotechnology.
• Demonstrated expertise in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and/or metabolic engineering.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting complex research projects, including data analysis and interpretation.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and databases for genomic and proteomic analysis.
• Experience with relevant laboratory techniques such as PCR, cloning, gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), and cell culture.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Track record of publications in reputable scientific journals and successful grant/patent applications.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including premium health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous stock options are available, reflecting the innovative nature of our work.
• Professional development is a priority, with support for conferences, training, and continuous learning.
• Employees enjoy significant autonomy and flexibility, with the option for fully remote work.
• Access to cutting-edge research tools and computational resources is provided.
• A robust retirement savings plan and substantial paid time off are included.
• The company fosters an inclusive and stimulating research environment.