Senior Molecular Biologist (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Home office stipend

Health insurance

Professional development

Remote-first culture

Retirement match

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Molecular Biologist to join a fully remote research team. The role focuses on developing and validating molecular assays and gene-editing technologies from a home office, with global collaboration and no travel requirements.

The ideal candidate has a Ph.D. or Master’s in a related field, 5+ years of post-graduate molecular biology experience, and proven expertise in PCR, qPCR, NGS, and bioinformatics. Strong communication and independent work are essential.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of post-graduate research experience in a molecular biology setting.
• Expertise in PCR, qPCR, NGS, and related molecular techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis software such as R, Python, or GraphPad Prism.
• Experience with gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of bioinformatics and genomics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and execute complex molecular biology experiments (PCR, qPCR, NGS).
• Develop and validate diagnostic assays for various diseases and biomarkers.
• Analyze large datasets using bioinformatics and statistics.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and propose solutions.
• Maintain lab notebooks and prepare reports of findings.
• Stay updated on literature and tech advances in molecular biology.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including data scientists and clinicians.
• Contribute to grant proposals and publications.

Skills

Written and verbal communication

Independent work

Time management

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Genetics or related

Tools

R

Python

GraphPad Prism

CRISPR-Cas9

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in genetic research and diagnostics, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Molecular Biologist to join their dynamic, fully remote team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements from the comfort of your home office. You will be instrumental in driving our research initiatives forward, focusing on the development and validation of novel molecular assays and gene-editing technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of molecular biology principles and a proven track record in experimental design, execution, and data analysis. This role demands exceptional analytical skills, a commitment to scientific rigor, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a geographically dispersed team. We are committed to fostering a remote-first culture, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration through cutting-edge digital platforms. Join us in shaping the future of personalized medicine and biotechnological innovation. The work environment is designed to support your professional growth and provide challenging yet rewarding projects within the scientific research and development sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and execute complex molecular biology experiments, including PCR, qPCR, ddPCR, NGS library preparation, and cloning techniques.
• Develop and validate new diagnostic assays for infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and cancer biomarkers.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets, employing statistical methods and bioinformatics tools where appropriate.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and provide innovative solutions.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory notebooks and prepare comprehensive reports on experimental findings.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in molecular biology.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including bioinformaticians, data scientists, and clinical researchers.
• Contribute to the writing of grant proposals and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, ethical, and regulatory guidelines.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-graduate research experience in a molecular biology setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in a broad range of molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, NGS, etc.).
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., R, Python, GraphPad Prism).
• Experience with gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of bioinformatics and genomics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a remote work environment.
• High level of organization, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
• Eligibility to work remotely from Soweto, Gauteng, ZA or surrounding areas if required for occasional collaboration, though the role is primarily remote.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and online courses.
• Access to state-of-the-art virtual laboratory resources and collaborative platforms.
• The flexibility and autonomy of a fully remote role.
• Contribute to impactful research that can change lives.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Home office stipend to ensure a productive workspace.