Principal Research Scientist - Biotechnology

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium health insurance

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Retirement plan with employer matching

Professional development opportunities

Stock options

Paid time off

On-site lab in Rustenburg

Job summary

Biotechnology Firm in Rustenburg is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead cutting-edge projects in gene editing, protein engineering, and synthetic biology. You will drive scientific strategy, mentor junior scientists, and ensure successful execution of complex programs.

Ideal candidates will have a Ph.D. with 10+ years of post-doctoral experience, a strong publication record, and demonstrated leadership in experimental design and project management.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research in biotech/pharma.
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of innovative biotech research projects.
• Develop and optimize complex experimental protocols and assays.
• Supervise and mentor a team of researchers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including computational biology and toxicology.
• Present findings at meetings, conferences, and in publications.
• Manage laboratory resources, equipment, reagents, and budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in relevant field

Tools

CRISPR

NGS

Recombinant protein expression

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent biotechnology firm, is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Research Scientist to join their cutting-edge research and development department. This is a critical, on-site role based in our facility in Rustenburg , where you will lead ambitious projects in areas such as gene editing, protein engineering, and synthetic biology. You will be responsible for driving scientific strategy, mentoring junior scientists, and ensuring the successful execution of complex research programs. The ideal candidate possesses a strong publication record, extensive experience in experimental design, and a deep passion for advancing human health through biotechnological innovation. This position offers the chance to work with state-of-the-art equipment and contribute to potentially life-changing discoveries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of innovative research projects in biotechnology, focusing on target areas such as genetic therapies or novel drug discovery.
• Develop and optimize complex experimental protocols and assays.
• Interpret experimental data, draw conclusions, and formulate next steps for research programs.
• Supervise and mentor a team of research associates and junior scientists, fostering their scientific development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including computational biology, toxicology, and clinical development.
• Author and present research findings at internal meetings, scientific conferences, and in peer-reviewed publications.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, reagents, and budgets.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and intellectual property development of the R&D division.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one core area of biotechnology (e.g., CRISPR, recombinant protein expression, NGS, metabolic engineering).
• Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex scientific projects.
• Strong publication record in high-impact scientific journals.
• Excellent understanding of experimental design, data analysis, and statistical interpretation.
• Proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to working collaboratively in an on-site research environment.

Benefits

• This position offers an exceptionally competitive salary, complemented by annual performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package including premium health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Employees contribute to a robust retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Our client invests heavily in employee growth, providing opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and participation in professional development programs.
• The role is based in a modern facility in Rustenburg , equipped with the latest scientific instrumentation.
• We are committed to fostering a stimulating work environment where scientific curiosity and innovation are highly valued and rewarded.
• Further benefits include generous paid time off and potential for stock options.