Remote Lead Molecular Biologist | Drug Discovery Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development budget

Remote-first working model

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead drug-discovery programs in a remote-first environment. You will design experiments, guide complex assays, and interpret results to advance therapeutic candidates.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in molecular biology and at least seven years of hands-on research, with leadership experience, expertise in PCR/qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, and NGS library prep, plus strong remote collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years hands-on molecular and cell biology research with leadership experience.
• Experience with a broad range of molecular techniques (PCR/qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, NGS library prep).
• Strong data analysis skills and ability to collaborate remotely.

Responsibilities

• Lead molecular biology projects from experimental design to data reporting.
• Develop, optimize, and validate molecular assays (PCR/qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, NGS prep).
• Investigate cellular pathways relevant to disease and therapy.
• Analyze complex data and make strategic recommendations.
• Mentor junior researchers and foster a collaborative lab culture.
• Contribute to IP strategy through invention disclosures and patent filings.
• Present findings at internal meetings and external forums.
• Maintain rigorous lab records and ensure safety/regulatory compliance.

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Molecular Biologist to spearhead drug-discovery programs in a remote-first environment. You will design experiments, guide complex assays, and interpret results to advance therapeutic candidates.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in molecular biology and at least seven years of hands-on research, with leadership experience, expertise in PCR/qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, and NGS library prep, plus strong remote collaboration skills.