Senior Research Assistant - Molecular Biology

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and performanceBon—

Comprehensive health insurance

Opportunities for training and skill0

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Assistant in Molecular Biology to support critical research activities in Polokwane. The role focuses on executing experimental protocols, meticulous data collection, and day-to-day lab operations under supervision of PIs and Postdocs.

You will contribute to projects exploring cellular mechanisms and disease pathways, gain hands-on experience, and develop advanced laboratory techniques within a collaborative team at a leading research organization in

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related life science.
• Minimum of 3 years hands-on molecular biology lab experience.
• Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience with cell culture and aseptic techniques.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and gel electrophoresis.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using aseptic techniques and perform cell-based assays.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and media required for experiments according to SOPs.
• Record experimental procedures and results accurately in lab notebooks and databases.
• Assist in troubleshooting experimental protocols and optimizing laboratory workflows.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety regulations and protocols.

Skills

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR

qPCR

Cloning

Gel electrophoresis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Biotechnology or related life science field

Tools

PCR machine

Gel electrophoresis equipment

Cell culture facilities

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and dedicated Senior Research Assistant with a strong background in Molecular Biology to support critical research activities in Polokwane . This role is vital for the execution of experimental protocols, meticulous data collection, and the day-to-day operations of the research laboratory. You will work closely with Principal Investigators and Postdoctoral Fellows, contributing to projects aimed at understanding cellular mechanisms and disease pathways. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in a professional research setting, develop advanced laboratory techniques, and be part of a team committed to scientific advancement in Polokwane .

Key Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and gel electrophoresis.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using aseptic techniques and perform cell-based assays.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and media required for experiments according to standard operating procedures.
• Record experimental procedures and results accurately in laboratory notebooks and databases.
• Assist in troubleshooting experimental protocols and optimizing laboratory workflows.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety regulations and laboratory protocols.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 3 years of hands‑on experience in a molecular biology research laboratory setting.
• Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience with cell culture and aseptic techniques is essential.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork in the Polokwane lab.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for training and skill development in advanced laboratory techniques.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment within a leading research organization.