Senior Xenobiologist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Conference attendance funding

Career development opportunities

On-site amenities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Xenobiologist for our Bloemfontein research facility. The role focuses on extraterrestrial biological systems, with leadership over experimental design, data analysis, and collaboration across disciplines.

You will mentor junior staff, develop novel methodologies, and contribute to publications and grant activities in a dynamic academic environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biology, Xenobiology, Astrobiology, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years post-doctoral research experience.
• Proven track record of independent research with grants and publications.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, sequencing, gene editing).
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and statistical analysis software.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience leading research projects and mentoring junior staff.
• Familiarity with advanced microscopy is a plus.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid capacity with some on-site presence in Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex experiments on non-terrestrial biological samples.
• Analyze large datasets, report findings to scientific panels.
• Develop and validate new culturing, analyzing and manipulating novel entities.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and lab technicians.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams (astrobiology, genetics, bioinformatics).
• Maintain accurate records of procedures, results and observations.
• Contribute to grant writing and disseminate findings via publications.
• Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Critical thinking

Team collaboration

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Biology / Xenobiology / Astrobiology

Tools

PCR & sequencing equipment

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in theoretical and applied life sciences, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Xenobiologist to join their cutting-edge research facility located in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA . This role is pivotal in advancing our understanding of extraterrestrial biological systems and developing novel biotechnologies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical knowledge of biological principles and practical experience in advanced laboratory techniques. You will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and contributing to groundbreaking research that has global implications. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment and collaborate with world-renowned scientists in a stimulating academic and research environment. The company is committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, making this an exceptional career opportunity for ambitious researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex experiments related to the study of non-terrestrial biological samples.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets, generating reports and presenting findings to scientific panels and stakeholders.
• Develop and validate new methodologies for culturing, analyzing, and manipulating novel biological entities.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and laboratory technicians, ensuring adherence to strict experimental protocols and safety standards.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including astrobiologists, geneticists, and bioinformaticians, to achieve research objectives.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all experimental procedures, results, and observations.
• Contribute to grant writing and the dissemination of research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.
• Ensure compliance with all ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements pertinent to advanced biological research.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biology, Xenobiology, Astrobiology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Proven track record of independent research, including successful grant applications and publications.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques, including PCR, sequencing, and gene editing.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and statistical analysis software.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate in a team environment.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and mentoring junior staff.
• Familiarity with advanced microscopy techniques is a plus.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid capacity, with some on-site presence required in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a comprehensive health insurance plan, a generous retirement savings contribution, and a relocation assistance package for eligible candidates.
• Employees have access to continuous professional development opportunities, including funding for conferences and further training.
• We provide a supportive and collaborative work environment, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and opportunities for career advancement within a globally recognized organization.
• Paid time off includes vacation leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• We also offer employee wellness programs and on-site amenities designed to enhance work-life balance.