Senior Molecular Biologist - Genomics

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development

Collaborative and innovative work env

Job summary

Placements24 is actively seeking a Senior Molecular Biologist to join our genetics research team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This hybrid role combines in-lab experimentation with remote responsibilities, supporting high-impact genomic research and disease understanding.

The candidate will lead complex molecular biology experiments, optimize NGS workflows, and analyze sequencing data while mentoring junior staff and collaborating with clinicians and bioinformaticians.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related field
• Minimum 5 years hands-on molecular biology lab experience
• At least 2 years focused on genomics/NGS
• Proficiency in PCR, qPCR, cloning, Western blotting, and gel electrophoresis
• Extensive experience with NGS library prep kits (Illumina, PacBio) and sequencing platforms
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for genomic data analysis

Responsibilities

• Design, execute and analyze complex molecular biology experiments with a focus on genomics/NGS
• Develop and optimize molecular assays and protocols to support research objectives
• Perform DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation and sequencing runs
• Conduct bioinformatic analysis of sequencing data including variant calling and annotation
• Troubleshoot experiments and implement effective solutions
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and contribute to reports/publications
• Collaborate with geneticists, bioinformaticians and clinicians to achieve project goals
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the field of genetic research, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Molecular Biologist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role is based in our state-of-the-art laboratories in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The successful candidate will play a crucial part in advancing cutting-edge genomic research, contributing to projects that have the potential to significantly impact disease understanding and treatment. We are looking for an individual with a passion for scientific discovery, a meticulous approach to experimentation, and a proven track record in molecular biology techniques. This hybrid position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with a talented group of scientists while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze complex molecular biology experiments, with a primary focus on genomics and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.


• Develop and optimize new molecular assays and protocols to support ongoing research objectives.


• Perform DNA/RNA extraction, purification, library preparation, and sequencing runs.


• Conduct bioinformatic analysis of sequencing data, including variant calling, annotation, and functional interpretation.


• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and implement solutions effectively.


• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks and contribute to scientific reports and publications.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including geneticists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians, to achieve project goals.


• Mentor junior research staff and provide technical guidance as needed.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in molecular biology, with at least 2 years focused on genomics/NGS.


• Proficiency in a wide range of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, cloning, Western blotting, and gel electrophoresis.


• Extensive experience with NGS library preparation kits (e.g., Illumina, PacBio) and sequencing platforms.


• Demonstrated experience with bioinformatics tools and software for genomic data analysis (e.g.,


• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific data clearly.


• Previous experience in a supervisory or mentorship role is advantageous.


• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) is a plus.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing in-lab and remote responsibilities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund contribution.

• generous annual salary


• comprehensive medical aid


• a retirement fund contribution


• opportunities for professional development, including attending scientific conferences and workshops


• collaborative and innovative work environment, encouraging scientific curiosity and personal growth


• exposure to groundbreaking research and the chance to make a tangible impact in the scientific community

Located in the scenic Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, this position offers an attractive lifestyle combined with an exciting career in scientific research.