Senior Biologist - Molecular Assays

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional development

Modern facilities

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Biologist to lead the development of molecular assays in Vereeniging. You will design, optimize, and validate assays for diagnostic and research use, working with a team of scientists in state-of-the-art facilities.

The role requires a PhD in a life sciences field and 4+ years of hands-on assay development experience, including qPCR/dPCR/NGS library prep. Strong data analysis and collaboration skills are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related life sciences.
• ≥4 years hands-on experience in assay development and validation.
• Experience with qPCR, dPCR, and/or NGS library prep/analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop new molecular assays (PCR, qPCR, ELISA, NGS-based).
• Optimize assay parameters for sensitivity, specificity and robustness.
• Validate assays per regulatory guidelines and internal standards.
• Troubleshoot issues and improve assay performance.
• Collaborate with product development and bioinformatics teams.
• Author protocols, technical reports, and contribute to publications.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Assay development

Statistical analysis

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Genetics or related life science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Biologist to lead the development of novel molecular assays within their research and development department in Vereeniging. This critical role will involve designing, optimizing, and validating cutting-edge assays for diagnostic and research purposes. You will work with a talented team of scientists and technicians, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory facilities to advance projects from concept to validation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in molecular biology techniques and a passion for developing innovative solutions in a laboratory setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new molecular assays (e.g., PCR, qPCR, ELISA, next-generation sequencing based assays).
• Optimize assay parameters to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and robustness.
• Validate developed assays according to regulatory guidelines and internal quality standards.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and implement solutions to improve assay performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development and bioinformatics.
• Author detailed protocols, technical reports, and contribute to scientific publications.

Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience in assay development and validation.
• Expertise in various molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection methods.
• Experience with qPCR, dPCR, and/or NGS library preparation and analysis.
• Strong understanding of statistical analysis and data interpretation for assay validation.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills for work in Vereeniging.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and continued learning.
• Access to modern laboratory facilities and cutting-edge technology.
• A collaborative and innovative research environment driving scientific advancement.