Senior Microbiologist - Pharmaceutical Research

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist for a pharmaceutical R&D role in Klerksdorp, North West. The successful candidate will design and execute complex microbiological assays, oversee microbial safety and resistance studies, and contribute to drug development pipelines.

The ideal applicant holds a Master’s or PhD in Microbiology or a related life science, with 5+ years in microbiology, aseptic technique, PCR/qPCR, and GMP/regulatory familiarity.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related life science.
• 5+ years of microbiology experience in pharma/biotech.
• Extensive knowledge of microbial physiology and molecular techniques.
• Experience with GMP and regulatory guidelines (FDA/EMA).
• Aseptic techniques and microbial cultivation experience.
• Familiarity with AST and mechanism of action studies.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and interpret microbiological experiments for drug development.
• Develop and validate microbial assays, including antimicrobial susceptibility testing and sterility.
• Investigate contamination issues and implement CAPA.
• Identify and characterize microorganisms using various techniques.
• Maintain precise lab records and document procedures per GMP.
• Analyze and report data to research teams and management.
• Stay current with advances in microbiology and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to regulatory submission documents.
• Collaborate with chemists, biologists, and formulation scientists.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and ethical standards.

Skills

Microbiology

Molecular biology

Aseptic techniques

PCR

DNA sequencing

qPCR

AST

GMP compliance

Regulatory guidelines

Education

Master's or PhD in Microbiology / related life science

Tools

PCR instruments

DNA sequencers

AST equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent pharmaceutical research organization, is seeking a dedicated Senior Microbiologist to bolster their R&D capabilities in Klerksdorp, North West . This role is integral to the development and testing of novel pharmaceutical compounds and formulations, focusing on microbial efficacy, safety, and resistance studies. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex microbiological assays, analyzing experimental data, and contributing to the interpretation of results within the broader drug development pipeline. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of microbial physiology, molecular microbiology techniques, and sterile manufacturing principles. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to work at the forefront of pharmaceutical science, contributing to the creation of life-saving and life-enhancing medications. We are looking for a meticulous scientist with a strong commitment to quality and a passion for advancing healthcare through rigorous research. You will be a key contributor to critical research projects, ensuring the highest standards of scientific integrity and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and interpret microbiological experiments related to drug development and formulation.
• Develop and validate microbial assays, including those for antimicrobial susceptibility testing and sterility.
• Investigate microbial contamination issues and implement corrective and preventative actions.
• Perform identification and characterization of microorganisms using various techniques.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and document experimental procedures according to GMP guidelines.
• Analyze and report experimental data, presenting findings to research teams and management.
• Stay current with advancements in microbiology, pharmaceutical science, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory submission documents.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including chemists, biologists, and formulation scientists.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and ethical standards.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a microbiology-focused role, preferably within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Extensive knowledge of bacterial and fungal physiology and pathogenesis.
• Hands-on experience with aseptic techniques, microbial cultivation, and identification methods.
• Proficiency in molecular microbiology techniques (e.g., PCR, DNA sequencing, qPCR).
• Experience with antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and mechanism of action studies.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory guidelines (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to troubleshoot complex microbiological problems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans, and significant opportunities for professional growth. This role in Klerksdorp, North West , is within a dynamic R&D environment. You will be part of a team dedicated to making a difference in healthcare. We offer paid time off, performance-based incentives, and access to advanced laboratory facilities. Join us and contribute to cutting-edge pharmaceutical research.