Research Associate - Drug Discovery

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Modern laboratory facilities

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Research Associate in Nelspruit to support drug discovery programs with hands-on lab work, assays, and data analysis. You will collaborate with senior scientists in a cutting-edge pharmaceutical research environment.

The role offers hybrid work balancing essential on-site experiments with remote data processing and reporting, with opportunities for growth in a dynamic team focused on impactful new therapies in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or related life science field.
• Previous experience in a research laboratory setting, preferably within drug discovery or related area.
• Proficiency with standard molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with assay development and execution.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow protocols meticulously.
• Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid team setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of in vitro assays to assess the biological activity and mechanism of action of drug candidates.
• Prepare reagents, maintain cell cultures, and operate specialized laboratory equipment.
• Accurately record experimental data and manage laboratory information systems.
• Assist in the design and execution of pilot studies and validation experiments.
• Contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and the preparation of study reports.
• Maintain laboratory organization, safety, and compliance standards.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell biology

In vitro assays

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a proactive Research Associate to contribute to their innovative drug discovery programs located in Nelspruit . This role involves hands-on laboratory work to support the preclinical evaluation of novel therapeutics. You will work closely with senior scientists to conduct assays, analyze data, and contribute to the overall success of drug development projects. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, balancing essential on-site laboratory activities with remote capabilities for data processing and reporting. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience in a cutting-edge pharmaceutical research environment in Nelspruit .

Key Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of in vitro assays to assess the biological activity and mechanism of action of drug candidates.
• Prepare reagents, maintain cell cultures, and operate specialized laboratory equipment.
• Accurately record experimental data and manage laboratory information systems.
• Assist in the design and execution of pilot studies and validation experiments.
• Contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and the preparation of study reports.
• Maintain laboratory organization, safety, and compliance standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related life science field.
• Previous experience in a research laboratory setting, preferably within drug discovery or a related area.
• Proficiency with standard molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with assay development and execution.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow protocols meticulously.
• Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid team setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Access to modern laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Be part of a dynamic research team working on impactful new therapies in Nelspruit .