Principal Research Scientist - Neuroscience

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Lab start‑up funds

Protected time for grant writing

Access to core facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead a premier neuroscience program in Nelspruit. You will drive independent research, design advanced experiments, and mentor a diverse team of scientists in a world‑class facility.

The role emphasizes securing extramural funding, publishing in high‑impact journals, and guiding strategic scientific direction while collaborating across institutes and with external partners.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
• A minimum of 10 years post‑doctoral research experience with a strong record of independent productivity and extramural funding.
• Demonstrated expertise in a neuroscience sub‑specialty (e.g., neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, neurodegeneration, neural circuits).
• Experience leading a research laboratory and mentoring teams.
• Strong grant writing and publication track record.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research programs on molecular/cellular mechanisms of neurological disorders.
• Design and execute complex experiments using state‑of‑the‑art techniques.
• Supervise and mentor postdocs, researchers, and technicians.
• Develop and submit grant proposals to secure external funding.
• Publish findings and present at international meetings.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Grant writing

Mentoring

Collaboration

Excellent communication

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related field

Tools

Molecular biology techniques

Advanced microscopy

Electrophysiology

Genomics

Proteomics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier neuroscience research institute located in Nelspruit , is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist to lead groundbreaking investigations into neurodegenerative diseases. This is a full-time, on-site position within a world-class research facility, focused on unraveling the complexities of the brain and developing novel therapeutic strategies. You will spearhead independent research projects, mentor junior scientists, secure funding through grant applications, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts. This role demands a visionary leader with a deep passion for neuroscience and a proven track record of scientific innovation and leadership. The ideal candidate will contribute significantly to the institute's mission of advancing neurological health.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent research programs focused on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurological disorders.
• Design and execute complex experimental studies using state-of-the‑art techniques in molecular biology, cell biology, and neurobiology.
• Supervise and mentor postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, and technicians.
• Develop and submit competitive grant proposals to secure external funding.
• Publish research findings in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals and present at international scientific meetings.
• Collaborate with other PIs and research groups within the institute and externally.
• Oversee laboratory operations, including budget management and resource allocation.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and scientific direction of the research institute.
• Ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and laboratory safety standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of post‑doctoral research experience with a strong record of independent research productivity, publications, and extramural funding.
• Demonstrated expertise in a specific area of neuroscience, such as neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, neurodegeneration, or neural circuit function.
• Extensive experience with relevant experimental techniques (e.g., rodent models, advanced microscopy, electrophysiology, genomics, proteomics).
• Proven ability to lead and manage a research laboratory effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong track record of securing grants.
• Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to mentoring and training junior scientists.
• Passion for advancing the field of neuroscience and translating basic research into clinical applications.

Benefits

This Principal Research Scientist position offers a highly competitive salary package up to ZAR per annum, commensurate with experience and funding success. Our client provides an exceptional benefits package including comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement plan, relocation assistance, and significant support for research endeavors, including substantial lab start‑up funds and protected time for grant writing. Access to state‑of‑the‑art core facilities and collaborative opportunities abound. Join a leading research institute dedicated to making significant advancements in neurological health in beautiful Nelspruit .