Job Description

BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH AND INNOVATION PLATFORMThe South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) strives to improve the nation's health and quality of life by funding and conducting relevant and leading health research. It further aims to promote equity, career development and progression.SENIOR RESEARCH TECHNOLOGISTSDuration: One Year ContractThe SAMRC's Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform requires a suitably qualified and experience Senior research technologist to prepare RNA and DNA samples for multi-pathogen surveillance as part of the SAMRC Wastewater surveillance team. Additionally, the incumbent will be required to assist with the isolation of high-quality DNA and RNA from various sources as well as to perform other sample management and pre-analytical procedures in the lab. This includes RT-qPCR and quality control for all samples prior to analysis. In addition to this, the incumbent will be responsible for maintaining good laboratory practice (GLP), laboratory equipment and performing administrative tasks related to the core functions of the facility. These candidates will be based at universities as indicated below:

• Gqeberha at the Nelson Mandela University
• Pretoria, at Sefako Makgatho University
• Limpopo, at University of Venda
• KwaZulu-Natal, at University of Zululand

Responsibilities:

• Weekly isolation of DNA and RNA from wastewater for multi-pathogen surveillance
• Routine RT-qPCR
• Adherence to protocol, SOPs and timelines and the ability to resolve problems independently within the host university.
• Receiving, logging and biobanking of samples
• Quality control of documentation and processes within the laboratory
• DNA and RNA quality control
• Assist with supply chain management as per project requirement so that laboratory stock is maintained.
• Management of assets and ensuring laboratory equipment is well maintained.
• Filing of documents as per operating procedures including keeping detailed and accurate laboratory records
• Coordinating of meetings or project logistics
• Updating of websites or online portals

Core Requirements:

• BSc or BTech In Molecular Biology, or similar qualification or higher
• 2 years' knowledge/experience working in a laboratory with Molecular Biology processes (or related fields).
• 2 years' knowledge and hands on experience with basic molecular biology techniques e.g., RNA, DNA isolation and RT-qPCR workflow
• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Laboratory administrative experience, working with Protocols and SOP's.
• Understanding of quality control within a laboratory.

Advantageous:

• BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology or related field
• Knowledge/experience with sample management
• Experience with DNA and RNA quality control
• Hands on research experience in a Microbiology laboratory
• Driver's license

Terms & Conditions: The SAMRC retains the right not to make an appointment. In accordance with the SAMRC's Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from the designated groups. For this reason, we require race, gender and disability status to be specified. Disabled persons are encouraged to apply. By submitting your application, SAMRC concludes that you are a competent person to consent and that you are giving consent to the SAMRC to process and further process all personal information contained in the application in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, Act No 4 of 2013 (as amended). The SAMRC does its best to provide the most accurate information; however, if there is anything wrong and unclear applicants are encouraged to contact the HR Recruitment Office at 021-938 0648 before the closing date.A salary in the region of R 401 742 per annum, cost-to-company.Closing date: 07 April 2024PLEASE QUOTE THE REFERENCE NUMBER (R716A) IN ALL COMMUNICATIONS. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT YOUR SUBMISSION WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED SHOULD YOUR APPLICATION NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE REQUIRED INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION.This website is optimised for secure, standards compliant web browsers. In order to view and use this website, you should use a web browser other than Internet Explorer.Options include: The latest version of 'Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Opera and Safari'

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