Principal Research Scientist (Neuroscience)

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development funding

State-of-the-art facilities

Mahikeng location

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist in Neuroscience in Mahikeng, North West. The role leads major research programs, mentors scientists, and shapes strategic direction in neuroscience research.

The candidate will design and execute advanced experiments, publish in top journals, and collaborate with global experts to translate discoveries into therapeutic progress.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Psychology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of extensive post-doctoral and/or independent research experience in neuroscience.
• Exceptional track record of scientific productivity, evidenced by publications in leading journals.
• Deep expertise in a specific area of neuroscience research.
• Proficiency with advanced neuroscientific techniques relevant to the research focus.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to mentor scientific staff.
• Proven success in obtaining research grants or funding is a significant advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage independent research programs focused on key areas of neuroscience (e.g., neurodegeneration, neuropharmacology, cognitive neuroscience).
• Design and execute cutting-edge experiments using a variety of neuroscientific techniques (e.g., electrophysiology, in vivo imaging, molecular biology, behavioral assays).
• Develop and validate novel research methodologies and experimental models.
• Analyze complex experimental data, interpret findings, and draw robust scientific conclusions.
• Publish research results in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Mentor and supervise junior researchers, post-doctoral fellows, and research assistants.
• Foster collaborations with internal and external research groups.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the neuroscience research division.
• Manage laboratory budgets and ensure adherence to safety and ethical guidelines.

Skills

Neuroscience expertise

Leadership experience

Mentoring

Publications track record

Analytical problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience/Neurobiology/Psychology

Tools

Electrophysiology

In vivo imaging

Molecular biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in neurological research, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist in Neuroscience to join their innovative team in Mahikeng, North West . This senior role is pivotal in driving forward our understanding of brain function, disease mechanisms, and the development of novel therapeutic interventions. You will lead groundbreaking research projects, mentor a team of talented scientists, and collaborate with leading experts in the field. We are looking for an individual with a profound depth of knowledge in neuroscience, a significant publication record, and a demonstrated ability to translate complex research into impactful discoveries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage independent research programs focused on key areas of neuroscience (e.g., neurodegeneration, neuropharmacology, cognitive neuroscience).
• Design and execute cutting-edge experiments using a variety of neuroscientific techniques (e.g., electrophysiology, in vivo imaging, molecular biology, behavioral assays).
• Develop and validate novel research methodologies and experimental models.
• Analyze complex experimental data, interpret findings, and draw robust scientific conclusions.
• Publish research results in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Mentor and supervise junior researchers, post-doctoral fellows, and research assistants.
• Foster collaborations with internal and external research groups.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the neuroscience research division.
• Manage laboratory budgets and ensure adherence to safety and ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Psychology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of extensive post-doctoral and/or independent research experience in neuroscience.
• Exceptional track record of scientific productivity, evidenced by publications in leading journals.
• Deep expertise in a specific area of neuroscience research.
• Proficiency with advanced neuroscientific techniques relevant to the research focus.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to mentor scientific staff.
• Proven success in obtaining research grants or funding is a significant advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a generous retirement plan.
• We provide unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences, specialized training, and research collaborations.
• Employees will have access to state-of-the‑art neuroscience research facilities and cutting‑edge equipment.
• Working in Mahikeng, North West , provides an opportunity to contribute to impactful neuroscience research in a dynamic and supportive setting.
• We are dedicated to fostering scientific excellence and career advancement.