Senior Research Scientist - Oncology

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join our oncology research team in Johannesburg. The role focuses on driving early-stage drug discovery from target identification through preclinical candidate selection within state-of-the-art facilities.

You will design and lead in vitro and in vivo studies, develop assays, analyze data, and mentor junior scientists, contributing to a culture of scientific excellence at the Gauteng site. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, or related field.
• At least 5 years of post-doc or industry cancer research experience.
• Proven oncology drug discovery track record in cell signaling, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies.
• Hands-on lab skills: cell culture, cloning, protein biochemistry, flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

• Lead in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate oncology drug candidates.
• Develop assays for target validation and screening.
• Analyze data, troubleshoot, and propose alternative approaches.
• Prepare research reports, publications, and regulatory documents.
• Mentor scientists and foster collaborative culture at Johannesburg site.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, or related field

Tools

Cell culture

Molecular cloning

Protein biochemistry

Flow cytometry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist to join their cutting-edge oncology research team in Johannesburg . This pivotal role involves driving early-stage drug discovery projects from target identification through to preclinical candidate selection. You will be instrumental in designing and executing innovative research strategies, contributing significantly to the development of novel therapeutics for cancer treatment. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a tangible impact in a dynamic pharmaceutical environment, working alongside world-class scientists and leveraging state-of-the-art facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate novel oncology drug candidates.
• Develop and validate novel assays for target validation and compound screening.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot complex scientific challenges, and propose alternative approaches.
• Author high-quality research reports, scientific publications, and regulatory submission documents.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative and innovative research culture within the Johannesburg site.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in cancer research or drug discovery.
• Proven track record in oncology drug discovery , with expertise in key areas such as cell signaling, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies.
• Hands-on experience with relevant laboratory techniques, including cell culture, molecular cloning, protein biochemistry, and flow cytometry.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to present complex scientific data clearly.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and life insurance plans.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and further training.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave policies.
• A stimulating work environment focused on scientific excellence and innovation in Gauteng .