Research Fellow - Synthetic Biology and Gene Editing

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Research Fellow for a cutting-edge biotechnology institute in Klerksdorp, North West. You will design and execute experiments at the interface of molecular biology and engineering to create novel biological systems and therapies.

You will work with CRISPR-Cas9, cloning, sequencing, and high-throughput screening, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. A PhD and postdoctoral experience in synthetic biology or related fields are required.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or related field.
• Postdoctoral experience or equivalent in synthetic biology, gene editing, or metabolic engineering.
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, DNA assembly, and genetic manipulation.
• Proficiency with CRISPR-Cas9 and related genome editing applications.
• Experience with qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, or microscopy.
• Strong microbial or mammalian cell culture skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities and meticulous experimentation.
• Strong written and oral communication for reporting and collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and in a team at Klerksdorp location.

Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and validate novel genetic circuits and metabolic pathways using synthetic biology.
• Implement and optimize gene editing technologies for genome engineering in model organisms.
• Perform molecular biology experiments including PCR, cloning, sequencing, and gene expression analysis.
• Develop and utilize high-throughput screening methods to assess engineered systems.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and troubleshoot experimental challenges.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and researchers.
• Contribute to writing research proposals, manuscripts, and presentations.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Molecular cloning

DNA assembly

CRISPR/Cas9

qPCR

Western blotting

Flow cytometry

Microscopy

Cell culture (microbial/mammalian)

Analytical skills

Written and oral communication

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology or related field

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9 tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a cutting-edge biotechnology research institute focused on harnessing the power of synthetic biology and gene editing to address global challenges in health and sustainability. We are seeking a motivated and innovative Research Fellow to join our world-class team in Klerksdorp, North West. This role will involve designing and executing experiments at the interface of molecular biology, genetics, and engineering to develop novel biological systems and therapies. You will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, contributing to projects aimed at creating bio-based solutions. This position requires a strong foundation in molecular biology techniques, creativity, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in biological engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and validate novel genetic circuits and metabolic pathways using synthetic biology principles.
• Implement and optimize advanced gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9) for precise genome engineering in various model organisms.
• Perform rigorous molecular biology experiments, including PCR, cloning, sequencing, and gene expression analysis.
• Develop and utilize high-throughput screening methods to assess the performance of engineered biological systems.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and researchers.
• Contribute to the writing of research proposals, manuscripts for publication, and presentations at scientific meetings.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or a related field.
• Postdoctoral experience or equivalent research experience in synthetic biology, gene editing, or metabolic engineering.
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, DNA assembly techniques, and genetic manipulation.
• Proficiency in using gene editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 and understanding of their applications.
• Experience with relevant analytical techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, microscopy).
• Strong understanding of microbial or mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a meticulous approach to experimentation.
• Good written and oral communication skills for scientific reporting and collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team at our Klerksdorp location.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions, and opportunities for professional development. We provide a stimulating research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and the chance to work on high-impact projects. Join our innovative team and contribute to the advancement of synthetic biology.