Principal Research Scientist - Synthetic Biology

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health, dental, vision insurance

Home office stipend

Flexible working hours

Professional development via virtual训练

Job summary

Placements24, a forward-thinking biotechnology firm, seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Synthetic Biology to join a fully remote R&D team. You will design and build novel biological systems and lead projects from concept to proof-of-principle, with potential applications across industry near Soweto, Gauteng.

The ideal candidate has a PhD, 10+ years of experience, and a track record in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and systems biology.

Qualifications

• PhD in Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetic Engineering or related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive research experience with a strong publication record.
• Extensive hands-on experience with cloning, genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9) and plasmid design.
• Proven ability to lead independent research and manage remote teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and construction of synthetic gene circuits and engineered organisms.
• Develop and optimize synthetic biology tools and platforms (DNA synthesis, screening).
• Direct projects from concept to proof-of-principle for biotech applications.
• Collaborate with a distributed team of scientists and engineers.
• Mentor junior staff and publish results at conferences.
• Contribute to IP development and patent filings.
• Ensure compliance with safety and ethical guidelines.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genetic engineering

Synthetic biology

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Python

Education

PhD in Synthetic Biology or related field

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9

DNA cloning

Genome engineering

Bioinformatics (Python)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking biotechnology company, is seeking a highly innovative Principal Research Scientist specializing in Synthetic Biology to join their fully remote R&D team. This role is pivotal in designing and constructing novel biological systems and organisms for diverse applications, potentially impacting industries near Soweto, Gauteng. The Principal Research Scientist will lead research efforts, develop cutting-edge synthetic biology platforms, and drive projects from concept to proof-of-principle. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of molecular biology, genetic engineering, and systems biology, coupled with a proven ability to innovate and manage complex research initiatives in a remote setting. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of synthetic biology and contribute to transformative solutions. The ideal candidate thrives in a virtual collaborative environment, possesses excellent communication skills, and is driven by scientific discovery. While the team is remote, the strategic direction may align with industrial needs around Soweto, Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, construction, and implementation of novel synthetic gene circuits, metabolic pathways, and engineered organisms.
• Develop and optimize advanced synthetic biology tools and platforms, including DNA synthesis, genome editing, and high-throughput screening.
• Direct research projects focused on leveraging synthetic biology for applications in areas such as industrial biotechnology, agriculture, or therapeutics.
• Collaborate effectively with a diverse, remote team of molecular biologists, geneticists, computational biologists, and engineers.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and continuous learning.
• Author high-impact publications and present research findings at leading scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and patent applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and emerging trends in synthetic biology and related fields.
• Manage research project timelines, resources, and budgets, ensuring efficient execution in a remote framework.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and ethical guidelines relevant to biological research.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetic Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive research experience in synthetic biology, with a strong publication record and demonstrated success in leading independent research.
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular cloning, genetic manipulation techniques, and genome engineering (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9).
• Proven expertise in designing and building complex biological systems.
• Strong understanding of systems biology principles, metabolic engineering, and pathway analysis.
• Experience with high-throughput experimentation and data analysis.
• Excellent leadership, mentorship, and project management skills, particularly in a remote collaboration context.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in relevant bioinformatics tools and programming languages (e.g., Python) is a plus.
• Ability to think creatively and solve complex scientific challenges.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed for a remote workforce, including performance bonuses, excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• We provide a home office stipend, support for professional development through virtual training and conferences, and flexible working hours.
• This role offers the opportunity to work on groundbreaking synthetic biology research from anywhere, contributing to innovations relevant to sectors near Soweto, Gauteng.