Position: R&D Associate

Focus Area: Molecular Biology

Department : Research and Development

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Location: Cape Town, 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 Associate Scientist to join our Research and Development team in Cape Town, South Africa. This role reports to the Enzyme Engineering Team Lead and will support a research program dedicated to developing novel proprietary technologies that are used for various proteomics 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 novel technologies that create value for customers in the life sciences and clinical diagnostics markets. In this role, you will work closely with our Computational Biology department.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and perform molecular biology experiments, including plasmid vector design and construction.
• Plan and perform protein purification experiments including: cell lysis; cell-free protein synthesis; small scale affinity purification; FPLC-assisted affinity purification.
• Develop, troubleshoot, and optimize molecular biology assays systematically.
• Plan and perform molecular biology experiments including PCR, qPCR, RT-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, qPCR and RT-qPCR and primer design.
• Experience in setting up and troubleshooting enzyme assays.
• Familiarity with NGS data analysis would be an advantage.
• Specific knowledge of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes.
• Strong interest in protein biochemistry and molecular biology.
• 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, biochemistry or a related discipline + 0-3 years of relevant experience; or

• BSc Honors 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. Applicants must be South African or be eligible to work in South Africa and already possess the necessary work permits or visas, or be able to obtain them before responding to this vacancy.

To ensure your application is considered, please submit it by Sunday, 18 January 2026. 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.

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. We will also request a current payslip.

NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE

We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics

SOUTH AFRICA - 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 they are currently eligible to work in South Africa. South African citizens are preferred.

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.