Research Scientist - Biotechnology

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical coverage

Pension plan

Generous PTO

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Research Scientist in Biotechnology for our Cape Town on-site laboratory. You will design and execute experiments, analyze data, and contribute to drug target validation within a collaborative team.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in a life science, with 3–5 years of hands-on lab experience in cloning, PCR, Western blotting and mammalian cell culture.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in biotechnology or related life science field.
• 3–5 years of relevant research experience.
• Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Experience with aseptic mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Strong experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• On-site, full-time work at Cape Town laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Design, perform, and optimize molecular biology and cell culture experiments.
• Analyze biological data using statistics and bioinformatics tools.
• Develop and validate new assays and protocols.
• Plan and execute research projects within defined timelines.
• Maintain detailed lab records and documentation.
• Collaborate with team and contribute to discussions.
• Stay current with literature and emerging trends.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings.
• Ensure GLP and safety compliance.

Skills

Molecular cloning

PCR

Western blotting

Cell-based assays

Aseptic cell culture

Experimental design

Statistical analysis

Scientific communication

Independent & team work

GLP awareness

Education

Master's or PhD in Biotechnology / Molecular Biology / Biochemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biotechnology firm dedicated to advancing human health, is seeking a talented Research Scientist in Biotechnology to join their dynamic team based in Cape Town . This is a full-time, on-site position where you will be immersed in cutting-edge research, contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic solutions. You will be responsible for designing and executing experiments, analyzing complex biological data, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and researchers. The ideal candidate possesses a strong academic background in a relevant biological science, coupled with hands-on laboratory experience and a meticulous approach to scientific inquiry. You will play a vital role in the discovery pipeline, from initial hypothesis generation to validating potential drug targets or novel biological processes. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging scientific curiosity and the pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. Your contribution will be crucial in advancing our client's mission to develop life-changing biotechnologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, perform, and optimize molecular biology and cell culture experiments.
• Analyze and interpret biological data, employing various statistical and bioinformatics tools.
• Develop and validate new assays and experimental protocols.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of research projects within defined timelines.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and contribute to group discussions and problem-solving.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging trends in biotechnology and relevant therapeutic areas.
• Prepare technical reports and present research findings to internal teams.
• Ensure adherence to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and safety protocols.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant research experience in an academic or industry setting.
• Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, Western blotting, and cell-based assays.
• Experience with aseptic cell culture techniques for mammalian cell lines.
• Strong understanding of experimental design and statistical analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Must be able to work full-time on-site at our Cape Town laboratory.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending scientific conferences.
• Access to advanced laboratory equipment and technologies.
• A stimulating and innovative research environment.