Senior Microbiologist - Pharmaceutical Research

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Microbiologist to join a leading pharmaceutical R&D team in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and novel therapeutic discovery, requiring leadership of lab investigations and design of complex studies.

The successful candidate will possess a PhD in Microbiology or related field, 6+ years in pharma/biotech settings, and strong experience with molecular biology, culture, and high-throughput platforms.

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related life science with strong microbiology focus.
• Minimum 6 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in pharmaceutical/biotech R&D.
• Demonstrated expertise in microbial pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance; drug discovery.
• Proficiency with aseptic techniques, culture, microscopy and molecular methods (PCR, sequencing).
• Experience with lab automation and high-throughput screening platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on microbial mechanisms and therapeutic targets.
• Design, execute, and optimize microbiological assays and culture methods.
• Analyze complex microbiological data including genomic and phenotypic data.
• Develop and validate new experimental methods for studies.
• Mentor junior researchers and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Prepare manuscripts, grant proposals, and regulatory submissions.

Skills

Microbiology techniques

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Lab leadership

GLP awareness

Education

PhD in Microbiology

Tools

PCR

Sequencing

Microscopy

HTS platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical company committed to advancing global health, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Microbiologist to join their dedicated research and development team in Soweto, Gauteng. This role is instrumental in driving forward innovative research related to infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the development of novel therapeutic agents. You will lead critical laboratory investigations, oversee study design, and analyze complex microbiological data. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of microbial physiology, genetics, and pathogenicity, coupled with extensive experience in pharmaceutical research environments. You will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, clinicians, and pharmacologists in Soweto, Gauteng, contributing to cutting-edge drug discovery and development programs. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on public health through advanced microbiological research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on understanding microbial mechanisms of disease and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
• Design, execute, and optimize microbiological assays, including microbial culture, susceptibility testing, and molecular techniques.
• Analyze and interpret complex microbiological data, including genomic, transcriptomic, and phenotypic data.
• Develop and validate new experimental methodologies and protocols for research studies.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor and guide junior research associates, fostering their scientific development and ensuring high-quality experimental work.
• Collaborate effectively with internal and external partners to advance research programs.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and adhere to all safety and quality guidelines (e.g., GLP).
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in microbiology, infectious diseases, and pharmaceutical research.
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline with a strong emphasis on microbiology.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology research.
• Demonstrated expertise in microbial pathogenesis, antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and drug discovery.
• Proficiency in a broad range of microbiological techniques, including aseptic techniques, bacterial/fungal culture, microscopy, and molecular biology methods (PCR, sequencing).
• Experience with relevant laboratory automation and high-throughput screening platforms.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in interpreting complex experimental data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to publish research.
• Proven ability to work independently and lead research initiatives in a team-oriented environment.
• Experience working in Soweto, Gauteng or a similar research-intensive urban setting is advantageous.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, a robust retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and advanced training. We foster a collaborative and innovative research culture that values scientific excellence and encourages career growth. Join our team in Soweto, Gauteng, and contribute to life-saving pharmaceutical research and development, making a real difference in the lives of patients worldwide.