Job Description

The University of the Free State Next Generation Sequencing Unit (UFS-NGS Unit) invites eligible candidates to apply for intern positions in two research groups: respiratory and enteric niche (one per research group). The UFS-NGS Unit is a business and academic research facility under the Faculty of Health Sciences. It provides genomics services to researchers, upon request and offers integrated practical training and experience to appointed scientific interns. The internship is structured to expand the genomic knowledge (Dry and Wet lab onuses) of the selected applicant and further integrate the recipients with the technical know-how and demands of the current genomic market.

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: . Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Engage in structured wet and dry lab (Bioinformatics) genomic training.
• Assist with the business onuses of the Unit when required.
• Assist with organising structured bioinformatics workshops.
• Provide training for visiting researchers and students when needed.
• Partake in research dissemination.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Intern in respiratory research group:

o Master's degree on NQF Level 9 in Virology/ Microbiology /Molecular Biology,

• Intern in enteric research group:

o Honours degree on NQF Level 8 or Master's degree on NQF Level 9 in Virology/ Microbiology/ Molecular Biology.

Recommendations:

• Previous experience in a molecular laboratory.
• Strong skills in deductive reasoning.
• Committed to support a friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Preference will be shown towards candidates with the described additional required skills.

The following criteria apply to the selection of candidates:

• Have not participated in any learnership / internship programme.
• Willing to sign an internship agreement with the UFS.
• Not studying full-time/ classes must be after normal working hours.
• No formal work experience.

Competencies

Key Competencies Required:

• Results orientated:

o The ability to maintain composure and self-control.

• Strategic thinking:

o The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organized manner.
o The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
o The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
o The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

• Business acumen:

o Ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
o Proficient in using MS Office.
o Intern in Respiratory Research Group:
- Background knowledge of respiratory viruses (more importantly Respiratory syncytial virus
- Previous experience on whole genome sequencing of RSV.
- Previous experience on using several bioinformatic tools in the analysis of RSV data.
- Previous experience in community and hospital-based research.
- Previous experience in an administrative role.
o Intern in Enteric Research Group:
- Background knowledge of enteric viruses (more importantly Rotavirus)
- Previous experience on NGS
- Previous experience on using several bioinformatic tools in the analysis of Rotavirus data.

• Leading:

o The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
o The ability to be cooperative with others, display good-natured attitude, and encourage people to work together.

• Building coalitions:

o The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
o The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Required Documents

Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application. INCOMPLETE OR APPLICATIONS SENT VIA EMAIL WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter indicating the research group/s applying for.
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.

Closing date:
01 March 2024.

Salary:
A monthly stipend is applicable.

Enquiries:
For enquiries regarding the inherent requirements / duties and responsibilities, please feel free to contact Prof. Nyaga via email: . For assistance with the application system, contact 051 401 9810 or email or . Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 9848/ 9813/ 9810/ 9814/ 2979 for assistance.

General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Policy is available at :

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position.

Additional Information

University of the Free State