Principal Research Scientist - Molecular Biology

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary and annual-bon

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Professional growth and conference参与

Generous paid time off

State-of-the-art research facilities

Wellness programs

Career advancement opportunities

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a renowned biopharmaceutical company in Sandton to hire a Principal Research Scientist in Molecular Biology. The role leads critical research initiatives, shaping the future of molecular medicine and gene therapy.

You will guide a team, design and execute complex projects, and mentor junior staff. A PhD and 10+ years of experience are required, with strong publication or grant experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field.
• At least 10 years post-doctoral/industrial research leading projects.
• Hands-on experience with PCR, qPCR, cloning, Western blot, and cell-based assays.
• Proven ability to mentor and manage junior scientists and staff.
• Strong scientific communication; grant writing or patents a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of groundbreaking research projects in molecular biology (gene editing, gene therapy vectors, RNA therapeutics).
• Develop and optimize novel molecular assays for research and diagnostic applications.
• Supervise and mentor a team of research scientists and technicians.
• Analyze experimental data and make strategic recommendations for future directions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance projects.
• Stay updated with literature and emerging technologies in molecular biology.
• Prepare reports, grant proposals, and manuscripts for publication.
• Manage laboratory resources, budgets, and equipment at the Sandton facility.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical guidelines.

Skills

Molecular biology

CRISPR-Cas9

qPCR

Cloning

Western blot

Cell-based assays

Mentoring

Grant writing

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related life science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned biopharmaceutical company, is seeking a distinguished Principal Research Scientist in Molecular Biology to lead critical research initiatives at their advanced facility in Sandton . This senior position is responsible for driving innovation in areas such as gene therapy, RNA-based therapeutics, and novel molecular diagnostics. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in molecular biology techniques, a proven ability to design and execute complex research projects, and strong leadership qualities. This is a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the development of life-changing therapies and technologies, working at the forefront of biomedical research. You will guide a team of talented scientists, shaping the future of molecular medicine from our Sandton campus.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of groundbreaking research projects in molecular biology, focusing on gene editing, gene therapy vectors, or RNA therapeutics.
• Develop and optimize novel molecular assays and techniques for research and diagnostic applications.
• Supervise and mentor a team of research scientists and technicians, providing scientific guidance and career development support.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of experimental data, interpret results, and make strategic recommendations for future research directions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including protein biochemists, cell biologists, and preclinical development, to advance projects.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and emerging technologies in molecular biology and related fields.
• Prepare high-quality scientific reports, grant proposals, and manuscripts for publication in leading journals.
• Manage laboratory resources, including budgets, equipment, and supplies, ensuring efficient operation within the Sandton facility.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and ethical guidelines in research conduct.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral or industrial research experience in molecular biology, with a significant track record of leading research projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9), gene therapy, or RNA therapeutics development.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, cloning, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Proven ability to mentor and manage junior scientists and technical staff.
• Excellent scientific judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting research findings to scientific audiences.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative and dynamic research environment in Sandton.
• Track record of successful grant writing or contributions to patent applications is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary and an attractive annual bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits include excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• We are committed to fostering professional growth through ongoing training, conference participation, and opportunities for advanced learning.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is provided.
• The position is located in Sandton , offering a stimulating work environment with access to state-of-the- research facilities.
• Our client promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers various employee wellness programs.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership within the organization are significant.
• A robust retirement savings plan is also available.