Senior Research Scientist - Virology

Placements24; Midrand; Vor Ort; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.800.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Paid time off

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Virology in Midrand, Gauteng, ZA. Lead independent projects, mentor staff, and advance diagnostics and antiviral strategies in a state‑of‑the‑art BSL‑2/BSL‑3 facility.

You will design experiments, develop assays, and collaborate across teams while publishing results in top journals and contributing to grant proposals.

Qualifikationen

• Ph.D. in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related life science.
• Minimum 7 years post-doctoral virology research experience.
• Experience with RNA and DNA viruses and BSL-2/BSL-3 containment.
• Proficient in PCR, cloning, Western blot, ELISA, cell culture, and virological assays.
• Publication track record and ability to design complex experiments.

Aufgaben

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments on viral replication and host interactions.
• Develop and validate viral detection and characterization assays.
• Investigate antiviral drug mechanisms and resistance.
• Mentor postdocs, graduate students, and research staff.
• Manage projects, budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Collaborate with internal/external partners on initiatives.
• Prepare manuscripts and present findings at conferences.
• Ensure biosafety compliance and lab safety protocols.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding applications.

Kenntnisse

Virology

Molecular biology

Cell culture

PCR

Cloning

ELISA

Western blot

Experiment design

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Mentoring

Ausbildung

Ph.D. in Virology or related field

Tools

Next-Generation Sequencing

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a renowned infectious disease research institute located in **Midrand, Gauteng, ZA**, is actively seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Scientist specializing in Virology. This role is central to our mission of understanding viral pathogenesis, developing novel diagnostics, and advancing antiviral therapies. You will lead independent research projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to the institute's research strategy. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of virology, extensive hands‑on experience with a broad range of molecular and cellular biology techniques, and a strong publication record. Join a collaborative and cutting‑edge research environment in **Midrand**, where innovation thrives and scientific discovery makes a tangible difference. We are dedicated to tackling global health challenges and seek a passionate scientist to drive our virology research forward. The **Midrand** facility offers state‑of‑the‑art biosafety laboratories and advanced research equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments focused on viral replication, pathogenesis, and host‑pathogen interactions.
• Develop and validate new assays for viral detection and characterization.
• Investigate mechanisms of antiviral drug action and resistance.
• Supervise and mentor postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research assistants.
• Manage research projects, including budget, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners on research initiatives.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Ensure compliance with biosafety regulations and laboratory safety protocols.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related life science field.
• Minimum of 7 years of post‑doctoral research experience in virology.
• Extensive experience with a variety of viruses (e.g., RNA viruses, DNA viruses) and associated BSL-2/BSL-3 containment practices.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, cloning, Western blotting, ELISA), cell culture, and virological assays (e.g., plaque assays, viral titration).
• Experience with genomic/next‑generation sequencing analysis is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex experiments and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proven track record of publications.
• Experience in mentoring junior researchers and leading research projects.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and performance‑based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage is offered.
• A generous retirement savings plan with employer matching is available.
• Opportunities for professional development, including travel to scientific conferences and access to specialized training.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates relocating to **Midrand, Gauteng, ZA**.
• Access to cutting‑edge research facilities and a stimulating, collaborative scientific environment.
• We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence in **Midrand**.