Senior Biologist - Molecular Diagnostics

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,487,000 - 2,313,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equipment provided

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Biologist with expertise in Molecular Diagnostics for a fully remote role. Lead development of innovative diagnostic assays and validate performance from concept to implementation, collaborating with a global team from your home office.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. with 7+ years in molecular biology assay development, including PCR/qPCR, NGS, and immunoassays, and can work effectively in a distributed environment leveraging digital collaboration tools.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 7+ years of postgraduate molecular biology experience focused on assay development.
• Proven expertise in developing and validating molecular diagnostic tests (PCR, qPCR, NGS, immunoassays).
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection methods.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize molecular diagnostic assays.
• Validate assay performance, sensitivity, specificity, and robustness.
• Analyze data and report to R&D team.
• Troubleshoot issues to ensure reliability and reproducibility.
• Stay current with advancements in molecular biology and diagnostics.
• Collaborate with remote colleagues using digital tools.

Skills

Molecular biology

Assay development

PCR/qPCR

NGS

Bioinformatics

Remote collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in molecular biology

Tools

PCR instruments

NGS platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Biologist with expertise in Molecular Diagnostics for a fully remote position. You will be at the forefront of developing innovative diagnostic assays and technologies that address critical unmet needs in healthcare. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific advancements from your home office, collaborating with a dynamic and globally distributed team. You will leverage your deep understanding of molecular biology principles and your passion for diagnostic innovation to drive projects from concept through to validation. This position is ideal for a seasoned biologist seeking a challenging and rewarding remote career.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize novel molecular diagnostic assays and assays for various applications.
• Conduct experiments to validate assay performance, sensitivity, specificity, and robustness.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, providing clear and concise reports to the R&D team.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and implement solutions to ensure assay reliability and reproducibility.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in molecular biology, diagnostics, and relevant technologies.
• Collaborate effectively with remote colleagues, including geneticists, bioinformaticians, and clinical specialists, using digital tools.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of postgraduate experience in molecular biology research, with a strong focus on assay development.
• Proven expertise in developing and validating molecular diagnostic tests (e.g., PCR, qPCR, NGS, immunoassays).
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection methods.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis and data interpretation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for a remote work environment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Remote work flexibility with all necessary equipment provided.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education.
• Contribution to developing life‑saving diagnostic technologies.
• Engage with a leading team of scientists and innovators in a remote‑first culture.