Principal Research Scientist - Molecular Diagnostics

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

Benefits offered by this job

Home office allowance

Professional development support

Flexible remote work policy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead cutting-edge molecular diagnostics research and remotely guide a team in developing and validating novel assays for early disease detection. You will influence assay design, technology integration, and data analysis to advance next-generation diagnostics.

The role requires a PhD with extensive experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and proven leadership in translating scientific breakthroughs into clinically relevant solutions.

Qualifications

• PhD with a strong focus on diagnostics
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in molecular diagnostics or a related area
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid amplification, sequencing, and detection methods
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for diagnostic product development (FDA, CE-IVD)
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of novel molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., PCR, NGS, dPCR) for various disease applications.
• Oversee experimental planning, execution, and data analysis for assay validation and optimization.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and platforms to enhance diagnostic capabilities.
• Collaborate with clinical partners, bioinformatics teams, and product development to ensure successful assay translation.
• Author technical reports, scientific publications, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the strategic direction of the molecular diagnostics group remotely.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology (or related)

Tools

PCR

NGS

dPCR

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Principal Research Scientist to lead cutting-edge research in molecular diagnostics, working remotely. This senior role is focused on identifying, developing, and validating novel molecular assays for the early detection and characterization of diseases. You will drive innovation in assay design, technology integration, and data analysis, contributing significantly to the development of next-generation diagnostic tools. The ideal candidate is a visionary scientist with a deep understanding of molecular biology techniques and a passion for translating scientific breakthroughs into clinically relevant solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of novel molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., PCR, NGS, dPCR) for various disease applications.
• Oversee experimental planning, execution, and data analysis for assay validation and optimization.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and platforms to enhance diagnostic capabilities.
• Collaborate with clinical partners, bioinformatics teams, and product development to ensure successful assay translation.
• Author technical reports, scientific publications, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the strategic direction of the molecular diagnostics group remotely.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field with a strong focus on diagnostics.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in molecular diagnostics or a related area.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a broad range of molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid amplification, sequencing, and detection methods.
• Proven track record of developing and validating diagnostic assays for clinical applications.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for diagnostic product development (e.g., FDA, CE-IVD).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills are essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and significant bonus opportunities based on research achievements.
• Flexible remote work policy, promoting a strong work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance benefits.
• Allowance for home office setup and continued professional development support.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on disease diagnosis and patient outcomes globally.