Remote Principal Research Scientist, Molecular Diagnostics

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office allowance

Professional development support

Flexible remote work policy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead cutting-edge molecular diagnostics research and remotely guide a team in developing and validating novel assays for early disease detection. You will influence assay design, technology integration, and data analysis to advance next-generation diagnostics.

The role requires a PhD with extensive experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and proven leadership in translating scientific breakthroughs into clinically relevant solutions.

Qualifications

• PhD with a strong focus on diagnostics
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive research experience in molecular diagnostics or a related area
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid amplification, sequencing, and detection methods
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for diagnostic product development (FDA, CE-IVD)
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of novel molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., PCR, NGS, dPCR) for various disease applications.
• Oversee experimental planning, execution, and data analysis for assay validation and optimization.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and platforms to enhance diagnostic capabilities.
• Collaborate with clinical partners, bioinformatics teams, and product development to ensure successful assay translation.
• Author technical reports, scientific publications, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the strategic direction of the molecular diagnostics group remotely.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology (or related)

Tools

PCR

NGS

dPCR

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead cutting-edge molecular diagnostics research and remotely guide a team in developing and validating novel assays for early disease detection. You will influence assay design, technology integration, and data analysis to advance next-generation diagnostics.

The role requires a PhD with extensive experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and proven leadership in translating scientific breakthroughs into clinically relevant solutions.