Senior Research Scientist - Molecular Biology

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Pension fund

Generous annual leave

Conference funding

Internal training programs

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Molecular Biology to lead innovative projects, design and execute experiments, and mentor junior staff in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

You will drive development of novel targets, collaborate with cross-functional teams, analyze data rigorously, and contribute to publications and conference presentations. This non-remote, on-site role offers a clear path for career advancement within a resource-rich environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related field.
• At least 6 years post-doctoral research experience.
• Hands-on experience with diverse molecular biology techniques.
• Proven ability to design and troubleshoot experiments independently.
• Strong data interpretation and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex molecular biology experiments, including PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, and cloning.
• Develop and optimize novel experimental protocols and assays.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Lead research projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely delivery of results.
• Supervise and mentor junior research associates and technicians.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners on research initiatives.
• Prepare scientific reports, manuscripts for publication, and presentations for scientific meetings.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and laboratory protocols.
• Contribute to the development of new research strategies and proposals.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team collaboration

Data interpretation

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology / Biochemistry / Genetics

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Western blotting

Cloning

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading bioscience research organization situated in Mahikeng, North West, ZA , is seeking an accomplished Senior Research Scientist specializing in Molecular Biology. This critical role involves leading innovative research projects focused on understanding complex biological mechanisms and developing novel therapeutic targets. The successful candidate will contribute to high-impact studies, working within state-of-the- art laboratory facilities. You will be responsible for the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments, mentoring junior staff, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated scientist to advance their career and make significant contributions to the field of life sciences in a supportive and resource-rich environment located in the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex molecular biology experiments, including PCR, qPCR, Western blotting, and cloning.
• Develop and optimize novel experimental protocols and assays.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Lead research projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely delivery of results.
• Supervise and mentor junior research associates and technicians.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners on research initiatives.
• Prepare scientific reports, manuscripts for publication, and presentations for scientific meetings.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and laboratory protocols.
• Contribute to the development of new research strategies and proposals.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral research experience in a relevant scientific area.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with a wide range of molecular biology techniques.
• Proven ability to design, troubleshoot, and optimize experiments independently.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in data interpretation.
• Excellent leadership and project management skills.
• Demonstrated experience in mentoring junior scientists.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Familiarity with cell culture techniques and sterile practices.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual salary and a comprehensive benefits program. This includes private medical insurance, a pension fund, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for professional growth are abundant, with support for attending international conferences and workshops, as well as internal training programs. The research environment in Mahikeng, North West, ZA is highly collaborative, fostering innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to supporting our employees' work-life balance and professional development in this non-remote role.

• competitive remuneration package
• substantial annual salary
• private medical insurance
• a pension fund
• generous annual leave
• support for attending international conferences and workshops
• internal training programs
• support for our employees' work-life balance and professional development in this non-remote role