Senior Biotechnologist - Pharmaceutical R&D

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional growth

Advanced instrumentation

Conference support

Collaborative culture

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Biotechnologist to lead R&D efforts in a cutting-edge biopharmaceutical setting in Soweto. The role focuses on developing therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and vaccines, with extensive hands-on biology and purification work.

The candidate will mentor scientists, collaborate across functions, and ensure GLP/GMP standards while contributing to publications and regulatory submissions. A PhD and 6+ years in industry are expected.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years post-doctoral or industry experience in biopharmaceutical R&D.
• Extensive hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression systems (e.g., E. coli, mammalian cells).
• Proficiency in protein purification techniques (e.g., chromatography, affinity purification).
• Strong skills in molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, cloning, DNA/RNA isolation).
• Experience with cell-based assays and analytical techniques (e.g., ELISA, Western Blot, HPLC).
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex research projects independently.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on discovery and development of novel biopharmaceuticals.
• Design and perform experiments involving gene cloning, protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Optimize cell culture conditions and scale-up processes for recombinant protein production.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for assessing product quality and potency.
• Troubleshoot complex technical challenges in biopharmaceutical development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including process development, formulation, and regulatory affairs.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing technical guidance and training.
• Contribute to preparation of scientific publications, patents, and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure GLP and GMP adherence within the Soweto laboratory.
• Stay current with advancements in biotechnology and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Manage laboratory inventory and maintain equipment.

Skills

Biotech research

Molecular biology

Cell culture

Protein expression

Analytical methods

GLP/GMP compliance

Team leadership

Education

PhD in Biotechnology/Molecular Biology/Biochemistry

Tools

Chromatography

Affinity purification

ELISA

Western blot

HPLC

PCR/qPCR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving global health, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Biotechnologist to join their Research and Development division in Soweto . This critical role involves leading research efforts in the development of novel biopharmaceuticals, including therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and vaccines. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in molecular biology, cell culture, protein expression, and purification, coupled with a proven track record in drug discovery and development. You will work within a state-of-the-art facility, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians to bring life-changing therapies to market. This is an exceptional career opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge pharmaceutical innovation in a dynamic setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on the discovery and development of novel biopharmaceuticals.
• Design and perform experiments involving gene cloning, protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Optimize cell culture conditions and scale-up processes for recombinant protein production.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for assessing product quality and potency.
• Troubleshoot complex technical challenges in biopharmaceutical development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including process development, formulation, and regulatory affairs.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing technical guidance and training.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, patents, and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure strict adherence to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) within the Soweto laboratory.
• Stay current with advancements in biotechnology, molecular biology, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Manage laboratory inventory and maintain equipment in optimal working condition.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant post-doctoral or industry experience in biopharmaceutical R&D.
• Extensive hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression systems (e.g., E. coli, mammalian cells).
• Proficiency in protein purification techniques (e.g., chromatography, affinity purification).
• Strong skills in molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, cloning, DNA/RNA isolation).
• Experience with cell-based assays and analytical techniques (e.g., ELISA, Western Blot, HPLC).
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex research projects independently.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in technical reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced R&D environment in Soweto .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with employer contribution.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and advanced instrumentation.
• Support for attending scientific conferences and workshops.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture focused on scientific excellence.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.