Position: R&D Associate, Enzyme Engineering

Focus Area: Enzymology

Department : Research and Development

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Location: CapeTown, South Africa (onsite)

Experience: MSc (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related discipline + 0-3 years of relevant experience. Or: BSc Honours in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline + a minimum 2 - 5 years relevant work experience.

Position summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented R&D Scientist to join our Enzyme Engineering team in Cape Town, South Africa. This role reports to the Enzyme Engineering Team Lead and will support a research program dedicated to developing and characterizing novel proprietary enzymes that are used for various genomics and molecular diagnostics applications. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and contribute positively to our company culture and success.

This position offers an opportunity to participate in the development of engineered enzymes that create value for customers in the life sciences and clinical diagnostics markets. There is a strong emphasis on enzyme rational design and directed evolution to achieve these goals. In this collaborative role, you will work closely with various departments, including Applications Development, Computational Biology, Process Development, Marketing, and Customer Support across our global sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and perform molecular biology experiments, including plasmid vector design and construction.
• Plan and perform microbiology experiments including: cell transformation and protein expression in shaking flask cultures and bioreactors.
• Plan and perform protein purification experiments including: cell lysis; small scale affinity purification; FPLC-assisted affinity purification.
• Plan and perform protein characterisation experiments including: SDS PAGE and enzyme assays.
• Develop, troubleshoot, and optimize biochemical assays systematically.
• Plan and perform molecular biology experiments including PCR, qPCR and preparation of NGS libraries.
• Document all experimental details in an electronic lab notebook, analyze and interpret data, and present results and project updates to managers and peers.
• Contribute to conceptualizing and inventing technologies for the genomics and molecular diagnostics markets.

Skills and Requirements

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including cloning, PCR, and qPCR.
• Experience in setting up and troubleshooting enzyme assays and in protein expression and purification.
• Familiarity with NGS data analysis is a plus.
• Specific knowledge of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes is advantageous.
• Strong interest in protein biochemistry and genomics.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret high-quality experiments.
• Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• High level of self-motivation and initiative, with the ability to multitask and perform consistently under pressure.

Education and Experience

• MSc in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline + 0-3 years of relevant experience or BSc Honours in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline + a minimum 2 - 5 years relevant work experience.

Application Requirements

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:

• Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter)
• Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested.

To ensure your application is considered, please submit it by Friday 13 September 2024. Please note that this position may close earlier if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

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WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in South Africa; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in South Africa.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable laws.