Senior Research Scientist - Neuroscience

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Conference access

Job summary

Placements24, a prestigious biomedical research entity in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, invites applications for a Senior Research Scientist in Neuroscience. The role blends on-site lab work with remote research and leads projects on neural circuits, neurodegenerative diseases, and cognitive processes.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related field, 5–7 years postdoc experience, publishes extensively, and demonstrates grant success.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related field.
• 5-7 years of postdoctoral neuroscience research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in a neuroscience area (e.g., synaptic plasticity, neurodevelopment, neurological disorders).
• Strong track record of securing competitive research grants (e.g., NIH, NSF, Wellcome Trust).
• Extensive publication record in top-tier neuroscience journals.
• Proficiency in relevant experimental techniques and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, essential for collaboration and hybrid operations.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments investigating fundamental aspects of neuroscience.
• Lead independent research projects from hypothesis generation to publication.
• Develop and apply advanced techniques in molecular biology, cell biology, electrophysiology, or neuroimaging.
• Secure external funding through grant writing and proposal submissions.
• Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research at national and international meetings.
• Mentor and supervise postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research technicians.
• Collaborate with other scientists within the institute and externally.

Skills

Grant writing

Leadership

Mentorship

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience

Tools

Molecular biology techniques

Electrophysiology

Neuroimaging

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious biomedical research institute, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Neuroscience. This position is based at our cutting-edge facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA, and adopts a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of on-site laboratory work and remote research activities. You will lead groundbreaking research projects aimed at understanding neural circuits, neurodegenerative diseases, and cognitive processes. The ideal candidate possesses a deep expertise in molecular, cellular, or systems neuroscience, extensive experience with relevant research methodologies, and a proven ability to secure research funding. This role is critical for advancing our understanding of brain function and developing novel therapeutic strategies. We are seeking a scientifically driven individual with a strong publication record and a passion for discovery. You will have the opportunity to mentor junior researchers and contribute to the intellectual leadership of our neuroscience department.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments investigating fundamental aspects of neuroscience.
• Lead independent research projects, from hypothesis generation to publication.
• Develop and apply advanced techniques in molecular biology, cell biology, electrophysiology, or neuroimaging.
• Secure external funding through grant writing and proposal submissions.
• Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research at national and international scientific meetings.
• Mentor and supervise postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research technicians.
• Collaborate with other scientists within the institute and externally.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of postdoctoral research experience in neuroscience.
• Demonstrated expertise in a specific area of neuroscience (e.g., synaptic plasticity, neurodevelopment, neurological disorders).
• Strong track record of securing competitive research grants (e.g., NIH, NSF, Wellcome Trust).
• Extensive publication record in top-tier neuroscience journals.
• Proficiency in relevant experimental techniques and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, essential for collaborative work and hybrid operations.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and support for research infrastructure. Opportunities for professional growth, including attendance at leading conferences and workshops, are provided. The hybrid work model offers flexibility for researchers at our Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA location. Join a world-class research environment dedicated to advancing brain science.