Senior Research Scientist - Infectious Diseases

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings options

Professional development support

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks a Senior Research Scientist specialized in Infectious Diseases to lead projects on pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, and the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

You will mentor junior researchers, publish in high-impact journals, present at conferences, collaborate with public health partners, and contribute to grant applications in a well-equipped laboratory.

Qualifications

• PhD in life sciences required.
• 5+ years post‑doc or industry experience in infectious diseases.
• Demonstrated pathogen-host interaction research.
• Hands-on experience with PCR, qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry, cell‑based assays.
• Experience with animal models is a plus.
• Strong publication record.
• Ability to manage projects and mentor staff.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct research on molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases.
• Lead projects and collaborate with internal teams and external partners.
• Publish in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Contribute to grant applications to secure funding.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians.

Skills

Molecular biology

Infectious disease research

Data analysis

Project management

Mentoring

Presentation skills

Education

PhD in Microbiology/Virology/Immunology

Tools

PCR/qPCR

Flow cytometry

Western blotting

ELISA

Cell culture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading biomedical research institute based in Bloemfontein , is seeking an accomplished Senior Research Scientist with a specialization in Infectious Diseases. This vital role will focus on investigating the pathogenesis, immune responses, and therapeutic interventions for a range of significant human pathogens. The successful candidate will lead innovative research projects, develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and contribute to the global effort in combating infectious diseases. This position presents an exceptional opportunity to conduct impactful research within a well-equipped laboratory and collaborate with a dynamic team of scientists in Free State . You will play a key part in understanding and mitigating the impact of infectious agents on public health.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct cutting-edge research projects on the molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases.
• Investigate host-pathogen interactions, viral/bacterial replication, and mechanisms of pathogenesis.
• Develop and validate novel diagnostic tools and potential therapeutic strategies (e.g., antivirals, vaccines).
• Utilize a range of techniques including cell culture, molecular biology, virology, bacteriology, and immunology.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing significant conclusions and formulating new research directions.
• Collaborate effectively with internal research teams and external partners, including public health organizations.
• Mentor and supervise junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and technicians.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to grant applications to secure funding for research projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant post-doctoral or industry research experience in infectious diseases.
• Demonstrated expertise in the study of specific pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria, parasites) and their interactions with the host immune system.
• Strong hands-on experience with techniques such as PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry, cell-based assays, and aseptic techniques.
• Experience with animal models of infectious diseases is a plus.
• Proven ability to design and execute independent research, analyze data, and interpret complex results.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• A strong publication record in reputable scientific journals.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and mentor junior staff.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and an attractive benefits package, including health, life insurance, and retirement savings options.
• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and equipment in Bloemfontein .
• Opportunities for professional development, conference attendance, and publication support.
• Join a dedicated team of scientists committed to advancing our knowledge of infectious diseases and improving global health outcomes.