Senior Biotechnologist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Annual performance incentives

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp seeks a Senior Biotechnologist to drive innovation in genetic engineering, protein expression and bioprocess development. You will lead projects, mentor staff, and ensure high-quality results in a state-of-the-art facility.

The role requires a Ph.D. or Master’s in biotechnology with 5–7 years of hands-on experience and expertise in PCR/qPCR, Western Blotting, ELISA and flow cytometry, plus mammalian or microbial culture skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related life science field.
• Minimum 5–7 years hands-on biotechnology research or development experience.
• Extensive experience with PCR/qPCR, Western Blot, ELISA and flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute recombinant DNA and gene cloning projects.
• Develop and optimize cell culture and fermentation for therapeutic proteins.
• Apply molecular biology techniques to modify organisms and analyze results.
• Design experiments to characterize products and improve downstream processing.
• Mentor junior scientists and document results in technical reports.

Skills

PCR

qPCR

Western Blotting

ELISA

Flow cytometry

Genetic engineering

Molecular cloning

Fermentation

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Biotechnology or related life science

Tools

Chromatography

Filtration

Cell culture techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading biotechnology research and development company, is seeking a Senior Biotechnologist to join their dynamic team in Klerksdorp . This role is instrumental in driving innovation in areas such as genetic engineering, protein expression, and bioprocess development. The ideal candidate will possess extensive laboratory experience, a strong understanding of molecular biology techniques, and a proven ability to manage complex research projects. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking work in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors, working within a state-of-the-art facility. You will be at the forefront of applying cutting-edge biotechnological solutions to address critical global challenges. The position offers the chance to make a significant impact from our Klerksdorp location.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects involving recombinant DNA technology, gene cloning, and pathway engineering.
• Develop and optimize cell culture and fermentation processes for the production of therapeutic proteins and other biomolecules.
• Utilize advanced molecular biology techniques for genetic modification and analysis of microorganisms and mammalian cell lines.
• Design and conduct experiments to characterize biological products and optimize downstream processing.
• Troubleshoot complex biological assays and experimental protocols, ensuring reproducible and reliable results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including analytical chemists and process engineers, to scale up bioprocesses.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing guidance on experimental design and data interpretation.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports, research summaries, and potentially contribute to patent applications.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with safety regulations and quality standards pertinent to the Klerksdorp facility.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of hands‑on experience in a biotechnology research or development setting.
• Extensive experience with techniques such as PCR, qPCR, Western Blotting, ELISA, and flow cytometry.
• Proficiency in microbial fermentation and/or mammalian cell culture techniques for protein production.
• Experience with downstream purification techniques (e.g., chromatography, filtration) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of genetic engineering principles and molecular cloning strategies.
• Excellent analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail in experimental execution and data analysis.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present scientific findings clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to manage research projects independently and work collaboratively within a team in Klerksdorp .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with annual performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, are provided.
• The company supports professional growth through ongoing training, opportunities to attend scientific conferences, and access to the latest laboratory technologies.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is offered.
• Our client is committed to fostering a stimulating and collaborative work environment in Klerksdorp .
• Opportunities for career advancement are significant for high-performing individuals.
• A retirement savings plan is also available.