Senior Molecular Biologist - Cancer Research

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Molecular Biologist for a renowned cancer research organization in Pretoria. You will investigate molecular cancer mechanisms, develop diagnostic tools and contribute to therapeutic strategies in cutting-edge labs.

The role demands a PhD with 5+ years of post-doctoral cancer biology experience, expertise in PCR/qPCR, cell culture, and data analysis, plus mentoring junior scientists in a collaborative, safety-conscious environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years post-doctoral cancer biology experience.
• Extensive hands-on molecular biology techniques and data interpretation.
• Strong publication record and ability to mentor junior scientists.
• Good communication and independent/team work skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent cancer biology research at the molecular level.
• Design, execute, troubleshoot PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, and cell culture experiments.
• Analyze data and identify future research directions.
• Develop and validate new molecular assays and protocols.
• Collaborate on experimental design and data interpretation.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and conference presentations.
• Mentor junior researchers and ensure detailed lab records.
• Ensure safety and compliance in the laboratory.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Mentoring juniors

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

PCR/qPCR

Cell culture

Mammalian cell line manipulation

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned research organization dedicated to advancing human health, is looking for a Senior Molecular Biologist to join their dynamic cancer research team. This position is based in our cutting-edge laboratories in Pretoria . You will play a crucial role in investigating the molecular mechanisms of cancer, developing novel diagnostic tools, and contributing to the discovery of new therapeutic strategies. This role demands a deep understanding of molecular biology techniques, experimental design, and data interpretation. You will be working within a multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians, contributing to projects that have the potential to significantly impact patient outcomes. This is an exciting chance to work at the forefront of cancer research in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research focused on understanding cancer biology at the molecular level.
• Design, execute, and troubleshoot complex molecular biology experiments (e.g., PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, cell culture, gene editing).
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing meaningful conclusions and identifying future research directions.
• Develop and validate new molecular assays and experimental protocols.
• Collaborate with team members on experimental design and data interpretation.
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Mentor and train junior researchers and technical staff in molecular biology techniques.
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks and records.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and ethical guidelines.
• Contribute to grant writing and the identification of research funding opportunities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience, with a strong focus on cancer biology.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of molecular biology techniques.
• Proven expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong publication record.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience with cell culture, aseptic techniques, and mammalian cell line manipulation.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis and data visualization is a plus.
• Experience in supervising or mentoring junior scientists is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required for this role. In addition to an attractive base salary, employees receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a robust retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off. Opportunities for professional development, including workshops, seminars, and conference attendance, are readily available. This hybrid role allows for a balance between in-office lab work and remote work for data analysis and writing, based in Pretoria . We foster a stimulating and collaborative research environment with access to cutting-edge technology and facilities. Career advancement opportunities within our growing organization are significant. Join a team dedicated to making a real difference in the fight against cancer.