Research Assistant - Biochemistry

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

On-the-job training

Mentorship from researchers

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Research Assistant to join a Biochemistry research group in Soweto. This role offers hands-on experience supporting experiments, data collection, and laboratory operations in a collaborative setting.

You will design and execute experiments, analyze data, and contribute to reports, with mentorship from experienced researchers. This entry-level position provides training and opportunities for growth in a dynamic lab.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related life science field.
• Experience in academic or industry research settings.
• Familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis) and biochemical assays.
• Proficiency with MS Office for data recording and analysis.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions and work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory experiments under guidance of senior scientists, including molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, and enzyme assays.
• Prepare reagents, media, and solutions according to established protocols.
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, results, and observations in laboratory notebooks.
• Assist in operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration and functionality.
• Conduct basic data analysis and help prepare reports and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and protocols.

Skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Data analysis

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Biochemistry

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Protein purification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join their vibrant Biochemistry research group in Soweto . This role provides an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic laboratory setting, supporting critical research projects. You will assist in designing and executing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory operations. This position is perfect for individuals eager to contribute to scientific discovery and develop their research skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior scientists, including molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, and enzyme assays.
• Prepare reagents, media, and solutions according to established protocols.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and observations in laboratory notebooks.
• Assist in the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration and functionality.
• Conduct basic data analysis and contribute to the preparation of reports and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and protocols.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science field.
• Previous laboratory experience, preferably in an academic or industry research setting.
• Familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis) and biochemical assays.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for data recording and basic analysis.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions carefully and work effectively as part of a team.

Benefits

• Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for on-the-job training and skill development.
• Exposure to cutting-edge biochemical research and techniques.
• Supportive team environment and mentorship from experienced researchers.
• Potential for career advancement within the research department.