Senior Molecular Biologist - Diagnostics

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Growth opportunities

State-of-the-art labs

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Molecular Biologist to lead diagnostic assay development in Sandton. You will design and optimize PCR/qPCR and sequencing-based methods, conduct advanced molecular experiments, and contribute to validation and regulatory readiness of diagnostic platforms.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and stay at the forefront of molecular diagnostics, applying your expertise to improve patient outcomes and public health.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology or related field required.
• ≥5 years post-PhD in molecular biology with diagnostics focus.
• Proven expertise in assay development and validation for molecular diagnostics.
• Hands-on experience with molecular techniques, instrumentation, and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize molecular assays for diagnostic applications (PCR, qPCR, sequencing).
• Perform complex molecular biology experiments including nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection.
• Validate assay performance characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, robustness).
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and optimize protocols for efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product development, QA, clinical affairs).
• Stay updated on advancements in molecular diagnostics and literature.

Skills

Molecular biology

Assay development

PCR/qPCR

Data analysis

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

PCR instruments

Sequencing instruments

Nucleic acid extraction methods

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Molecular Biologist to contribute to their diagnostic research and development efforts in Sandton . This role is vital in advancing the development of novel diagnostic assays and technologies for detecting diseases and health conditions. You will lead experimental design, execute complex molecular biology techniques, and contribute to the validation and optimization of diagnostic platforms. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment, applying your expertise to create impactful diagnostic solutions that improve patient outcomes and public health.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize molecular assays for diagnostic applications, including PCR, qPCR, and sequencing-based methods.
• Perform complex molecular biology experiments, such as nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection.
• Validate assay performance characteristics, including sensitivity, specificity, and robustness.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and optimize protocols to improve efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, quality assurance, and clinical affairs.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in molecular diagnostics and relevant scientific literature.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in molecular biology, with a focus on diagnostics.
• Proven expertise in assay development and validation for molecular diagnostic applications.
• Hands-on experience with various molecular techniques, instrumentation, and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of quality control and regulatory requirements in the diagnostic field.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and equipment.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment focused on innovation.