Senior Research Scientist - Biotechnology

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Career development

State-of-the-art labs

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni seeks a Senior Research Scientist with biotechnology expertise to lead R&D efforts in developing biotherapeutics and platform technologies.

You will design complex experiments, mentor junior scientists, and drive publication and IP contributions in a collaborative lab.

PhD and at least 6 years of post‑doctoral/industry experience required; strong background in molecular biology and protein methods is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of post‑doctoral or industry research experience in biotechnology.
• Proven expertise in PCR, cloning, Western blotting, ELISA, cell‑based assays and protein expression/purification.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and optimize experiments in molecular biology, cell culture and biochemical assays.
• Lead projects from conception through data analysis and reporting with timely execution.

Skills

PCR

Cloning

Western blotting

ELISA

Cell-based assays

Protein expression/purification

Mammalian cell culture

Aseptic techniques

Protein engineering

Antibody development

Gene therapy

Scientific publications

Education

PhD in Biotechnology or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively recruiting a highly skilled Senior Research Scientist with expertise in Biotechnology to join their cutting-edge R&D facility in Benoni . This position is key to driving innovation in the development of novel biotherapeutic products and platform technologies. You will lead research projects, design and execute complex experiments, and interpret data to advance our understanding of biological systems and therapeutic interventions. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry, coupled with a proven ability to manage research programs, mentor junior scientists, and contribute significantly to scientific publications and intellectual property, all within a collaborative laboratory setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize complex experiments involving molecular biology, cell culture, and biochemical assays.
• Lead research projects from conception through to data analysis and reporting, ensuring timely execution and high-quality outcomes.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, applying appropriate statistical methods and drawing scientifically sound conclusions.
• Develop and validate new assays and methodologies to support drug discovery and development programs.
• Mentor and train junior research staff, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and collaboration.
• Contribute to the preparation of research manuscripts for publication and present findings at scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in a relevant biotechnology field.
• Proven expertise in techniques such as PCR, cloning, Western blotting, ELISA, cell-based assays, and protein expression/purification.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques is essential.
• Strong understanding of protein engineering, antibody development, or gene therapy is highly desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong publication record.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a growing biotech firm.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and collaborative research environment in Benoni .