Senior Principal Research Scientist, Biotechnology (Hybrid)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health Insurance

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Generous PTO

Cutting‑edge facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative life sciences projects. You will guide teams across genetic engineering, therapeutic protein development, and molecular diagnostics, with a hybrid work model and significant facility presence in Klerksdorp.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 8+ years of post‑doctoral or equivalent experience, a strong publication record, and demonstrated leadership in research strategy and execution.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a life science discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years post‑doctoral or equivalent industry research experience.
• Demonstrated independent research leadership with publications in high‑impact journals.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques, cell culture, and protein expression/purification.
• Strong leadership, communication and mentoring skills; able to manage projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and design complex research projects in gene editing, synthetic biology, or protein engineering.
• Develop and implement cutting‑edge experimental methodologies and protocols.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring rigor, safety standards and QC.
• Analyze and interpret complex data, drawing robust conclusions and next steps.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and research staff.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including clinical, regulatory, and product development.
• Publish papers, contribute to patents and grant proposals.
• Present findings at internal meetings and external conferences.
• Stay updated on latest scientific advancements and technologies.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Team collaboration

Project management

Statistical analysis

Scientific writing

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related life science

Job description

Placements24 in Klerksdorp is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative life sciences projects. You will guide teams across genetic engineering, therapeutic protein development, and molecular diagnostics, with a hybrid work model and significant facility presence in Klerksdorp.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 8+ years of post‑doctoral or equivalent experience, a strong publication record, and demonstrated leadership in research strategy and execution.