Research Scientist - Molecular Biology

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Medical coverage

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Research Scientist with a strong background in Molecular Biology to join a dynamic Rustenburg-based team. The role combines hands-on lab work with remote data analysis in a hybrid model to drive innovative therapeutic research.

You will design and optimize experiments, analyze data, develop new assays, and collaborate to shape project direction while maintaining thorough records and presenting findings.

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry or related life science required.
• 3–5 years post-doctoral or industry research experience in molecular biology.
• Hands-on experience with PCR, qPCR, Western Blotting, ELISA and cell culture.
• Strong data analysis and statistical interpretation skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork in a hybrid setting.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize experiments in molecular biology and biochemistry.
• Analyze data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Develop and validate assays and protocols to support objectives.
• Collaborate with colleagues to interpret results and guide project direction.
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and prepare reports and presentations.
• Troubleshoot issues to keep projects on track.

Skills

PCR techniques

qPCR

Western Blotting

ELISA

Cell culture

Data analysis software

Statistical interpretation

Communication skills

Teamwork

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or Biochemistry

3–5 years post-doctoral or industry research experience

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Research Scientist with a strong background in Molecular Biology to join their dynamic research team in Rustenburg . This role involves conducting cutting-edge experiments, analyzing biological data, and contributing to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. You will work within a hybrid model, balancing essential on-site laboratory work with remote data analysis and collaboration. This position is ideal for a scientist passionate about driving scientific innovation, contributing to impactful research, and growing within a collaborative and supportive team environment, with opportunities to present findings and influence project direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and optimize experiments in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry.
• Analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical methods and molecular biology techniques.
• Develop and validate new assays and protocols to support research objectives.
• Collaborate with colleagues to interpret results and contribute to project strategy.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare reports and presentations of findings.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and propose solutions to ensure project progression.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• 3-5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in molecular biology.
• Hands-on experience with techniques such as PCR, qPCR, Western Blotting, ELISA, and cell culture.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and statistical interpretation of experimental results.
• Strong understanding of scientific principles and experimental design.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional development and continued learning.