Applications & Support Scientist – Cape Town | NGS Genomics | Watchmaker Genomics 2026

Watchmaker Genomics, a global life sciences company with R&D and production facilities in Cape Town, South Africa and headquarters in Boulder, Colorado (USA), is inviting applications for the full-time position of Applications and Support Scientist — based at their Cape Town office.

Watchmaker Genomics specialises in the design, development, and manufacture of precision DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes that power high-growth applications in next-generation sequencing (NGS), molecular diagnostics, and personalised medicine. Their products are trusted by researchers and institutions worldwide, and their Cape Town R&D team is at the heart of this innovation.

As an Applications and Support Scientist, you will sit at the intersection of laboratory science and customer engagement. You will plan and execute NGS application-based experiments, generate technical collateral that supports customer success, and provide direct consultative technical support to Watchmaker's customers and global sales teams. This role is ideal for a molecular biology or genomics graduate with hands-on NGS experience who wants to build a career in a fast-growing, internationally connected life sciences company.

Local Cape Town candidates are strongly preferred. Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered.

Key Responsibilities

Assist with the execution of NGS application-focused laboratory projects using Watchmaker and competitor chemistry

Plan and perform application-based experiments that support customer-facing projects, technical collateral, and internal support tools

Accurately document all experimental details in an electronic lab notebook

Meticulously collate, analyse, and interpret experimental data

Regularly present results to team members and leadership

Compile laboratory results for use by the Technical Support Team

Write knowledge articles designed for internal use by the Support Team to assist with customer technical queries

Provide consultative technical support to customers and the Watchmaker Sales team under supervision

Degree or Honours in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Biotechnology, or a related life sciences field

Hands-on laboratory experience with NGS library preparation techniques

Experience with PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, or related molecular biology techniques

Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and action items timeously without supervision

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to function effectively as part of a team

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Full competence in Google Suite, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Ability to learn and build in-depth knowledge of new technology tools

High level of self-motivation, initiative, and personal task management

Currently eligible to work in South Africa (visa sponsorship not offered)

Advantageous

Familiarity with competitor NGS chemistry and platforms

Experience writing technical documentation, knowledge base articles, or application notes

Prior customer-facing or technical support experience in a life sciences environment