Senior Synthetic Biologist — Hybrid Work & Impact

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

An East London biotechnology company is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Synthetic Biology to lead the design, construction, and testing of novel biological systems for applications including sustainable materials, therapeutics, and industrial processes.

The role is hybrid, balancing essential lab work with remote data analysis and strategic planning. You will oversee projects, mentor scientists, publish findings, and contribute to patents in a fast-evolving field.

Qualifications

• PhD in Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years post-doctoral or relevant industry research experience in synthetic biology.
• Demonstrated expertise in genetic engineering, DNA assembly, and molecular cloning techniques.
• Proven experience in designing and optimizing biological pathways for specific applications.

Responsibilities

• Design and construct novel genetic circuits and metabolic pathways using DNA assembly techniques and gene editing tools (e.g., CRISPR).
• Develop and implement experimental strategies to characterize the performance of engineered biological systems.
• Optimize microbial strains and cell-free systems for production of target molecules or functions.
• Utilize computational tools for pathway design, modeling, and analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate synthetic biology solutions into larger projects.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing guidance on experimental design and execution.
• Author scientific publications, present research findings at conferences, and contribute to patent applications.

Skills

Genetic circuit design

Metabolic pathway design

Troubleshooting

Project management

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Synthetic Biology

Related disciplines (Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering)

Tools

CRISPR

DNA assembly

Molecular cloning

Computational biology tools

Job description

An East London biotechnology company is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Synthetic Biology to lead the design, construction, and testing of novel biological systems for applications including sustainable materials, therapeutics, and industrial processes.

The role is hybrid, balancing essential lab work with remote data analysis and strategic planning. You will oversee projects, mentor scientists, publish findings, and contribute to patents in a fast-evolving field.