Research Scientist - Infectious Diseases

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development support

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Research Scientist role focused on infectious diseases in Polokwane. You will lead experimental design, execute studies and analyze data to drive advances in public health, collaborating with clinicians and scientists.

Responsibilities include developing diagnostics and therapeutics, performing PCR/sequencing/cloning, and contributing to scientific publications, while working in modern facilities with a strong team ethos.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in microbiology, virology, immunology or related field focusing on infectious diseases.
• 2-4 years post-doctoral or industry experience in infectious disease research.
• Proven expertise handling infectious agents and performing relevant laboratory techniques.
• Experience with PCR, sequencing and cloning.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work in a team-oriented lab.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to study pathogenesis, transmission and treatment of infectious diseases.
• Develop and validate diagnostic assays and therapeutic candidates against pathogens.
• Utilize molecular biology, microbiology and immunology techniques for pathogen characterization.
• Analyze data, interpret findings and contribute to publications and reports.
• Maintain meticulous lab records and adhere to safety protocols.

Skills

PCR

Sequencing

Cloning

Molecular biology

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Microbiology/Virology/Immunology or related field

Tools

PCR technology

Sequencing platforms

Cloning techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a passionate Research Scientist specializing in Infectious Diseases to join their dedicated research team in Polokwane . This role is crucial for developing innovative strategies to combat infectious agents and improve public health outcomes. You will be involved in every stage of the research process, from experimental design and execution to data analysis and interpretation. This position requires hands‑on laboratory work and close collaboration with a team of dedicated scientists and clinicians committed to advancing our understanding and treatment of infectious diseases.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to study the pathogenesis, transmission, and treatment of infectious diseases.
• Develop and validate diagnostic assays and therapeutic candidates against bacterial, viral, or parasitic pathogens.
• Utilize molecular biology, microbiology, and immunology techniques for pathogen characterization.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret findings, and contribute to scientific publications and reports.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and adhere to safety protocols.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, or a related field with a focus on infectious diseases.
• 2-4 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in infectious disease research.
• Proven expertise in handling infectious agents and performing relevant laboratory techniques.
• Experience with molecular techniques such as PCR, sequencing, and cloning.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented laboratory setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful research in infectious disease control.
• Access to modern laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Support for professional development and conference attendance.
• Collaborative and stimulating work environment.