Principal Scientist - Molecular Biology

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Fully remote work

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to join a globally oriented research program. The role focuses on conceptualizing and leading advanced molecular biology projects, including gene regulation and target discovery, from a fully remote setup.

You will mentor researchers, publish findings in high-impact journals, and collaborate with partners to push translational science forward while maintaining rigorous scientific standards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular or related life sciences.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive research experience with strong publications.
• Expertise in molecular biology techniques: qPCR, Western blot, CRISPR/Cas9, advanced microscopy.
• Proven ability to design and lead independent research projects.
• Experience leading teams and mentoring scientists.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic direction and execution of complex molecular biology projects.
• Design and validate novel experimental assays.
• Analyze large datasets and formulate actionable hypotheses.
• Collaborate with internal & external research partners.
• Publish high-impact papers and present at international conferences.
• Mentor research associates and junior scientists.

Skills

CRISPR/Cas9

qPCR

Western blotting

Advanced microscopy

Data analysis

Cell biology

Biochemistry

Education

PhD in Life Sciences

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of groundbreaking research in molecular biology and is actively seeking a highly accomplished Principal Scientist to join their distinguished team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to contribute significantly to innovative projects without geographical constraints. You will be responsible for conceptualizing and executing complex research strategies aimed at unraveling fundamental biological mechanisms and discovering novel therapeutic targets. This role demands a deep scientific understanding, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge from your remote workspace.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic direction and execution of complex research projects in molecular biology , encompassing gene regulation, cellular signaling, and protein function.
• Design and validate novel experimental assays and methodologies to address critical scientific questions.
• Analyze and interpret large, complex datasets, drawing meaningful conclusions and formulating actionable hypotheses.
• Collaborate with internal R&D teams and external academic partners to advance research objectives.
• Author high-impact scientific publications and present findings at international conferences.
• Provide mentorship and scientific guidance to research associates and junior scientists within the team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in academia or the pharmaceutical/biotech industry, with a strong publication record.
• Expertise in a broad range of molecular biology techniques , including qPCR, Western blotting, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and advanced microscopy.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, design, and independently execute complex research projects.
• Experience in leading research teams and mentoring scientific staff is crucial.
• Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a profound understanding of current scientific literature.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Flexible and fully remote working arrangement, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
• Exposure to cutting-edge research and the chance to make a significant scientific contribution from anywhere.