Principal Research Scientist (Biotechnology)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses and equity options

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan with employer match

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist for a Soweto-based biotechnology company to lead R&D initiatives in gene therapy, protein engineering, or synthetic biology. The role combines scientific leadership with strategic direction and mentoring of junior researchers.

You will guide projects from inception to completion, collaborate with cross-functional teams, publish high-impact work, contribute to IP, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a life science discipline.
• 8+ years of progressive research experience in biotech/pharma.
• Strong publication record and/or patents.
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, cell culture, protein expression/purification, gene editing, NGS.
• Experience leading research projects and mentoring staff.
• Understanding of drug discovery and development processes.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Experience with data analysis software and bioinformatics is a plus.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and design innovative biotechnology research projects aligned with strategic objectives.
• Develop and implement cutting-edge experimental methodologies and technologies.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data to draw robust conclusions.
• Mentor and guide a team of research scientists and technicians.
• Collaborate with R&D, clinical development, and regulatory affairs.
• Publish high-impact scientific publications and present findings at conferences.
• Contribute to IP strategy, including patent filings.
• Stay abreast of latest scientific advancements and emerging technologies.
• Ensure compliance with safety, ethical, and regulatory guidelines.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Cell culture

Genetics

Bioengineering

Data analysis

Bioinformatics

Problem solving

Scientific writing

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology / Biochemistry / Genetics / Bioengineering

Tools

Molecular cloning

Cell culture

Protein expression/purification

Gene editing (CRISPR etc.)

NGS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biotechnology company located in Soweto , Gauteng , is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Research Scientist to lead groundbreaking research and development initiatives. This senior position is instrumental in driving innovation in key areas of biotechnology, such as gene therapy, protein engineering, or synthetic biology. The ideal candidate will possess a deep scientific understanding, extensive research experience, and a proven track record of successfully leading complex research projects from inception to completion. You will be responsible for setting research direction, mentoring scientific staff, and contributing to the development of novel therapeutic products. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact on human health within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization in Soweto .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and design innovative research projects in alignment with the company's strategic objectives in biotechnology.
• Develop and implement cutting-edge experimental methodologies and technologies.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing robust scientific conclusions.
• Mentor and guide a team of research scientists and technicians, fostering scientific rigor and professional growth.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, clinical development, and regulatory affairs.
• Author high-impact scientific publications and present findings at international conferences.
• Contribute to the intellectual property strategy, including patent filings.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and emerging technologies in the biotechnology field.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, ethical, and regulatory guidelines.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Bioengineering, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of independent research, evidenced by a strong publication record and/or patents.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in relevant laboratory techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, cell culture, protein expression and purification, gene editing, NGS).
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and mentoring scientific staff.
• Strong understanding of drug discovery and development processes.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Superb written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Experience with data analysis software and bioinformatics tools is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic, and collaborative research environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptionally competitive salary package, commensurate with your extensive experience and contributions, along with significant performance-based bonuses and equity options. A comprehensive benefits package includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with employer match, and ample paid time off. We are dedicated to fostering career growth through continuous learning opportunities, funding for conferences, and access to state-of-the‑art research facilities. Join our innovative team in Soweto and contribute to developing life‑changing biotechnologies in Gauteng .