Field Research Assistant - Department of Virology - Faculty of Health Sciences

University of Pretoria / Universiteit van Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in South Africa is looking for a Field Research Assistant to manage fieldwork related to collecting data from animals. Responsibilities include preparing for fieldwork, coordinating equipment use, and managing data collection. The ideal candidate should have a BSc/BTech in Zoology or Ecology and experience in fieldwork coordination, along with proficiency in Excel. The role is based in Pretoria and offers the opportunity to work directly in the field.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license is essential.
• SAVC registration is mandatory.
• Experience in research/data analysis roles is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare inventories and stock for fieldwork.
• Coordinate the cleaning of field equipment.
• Assist in procuring field equipment.
• Manage data collection from animal movements.
• Oversee the management of waste.
• Enter field data into databases.

Skills

Experience with mammals

Proficiency in Excel

Data analysis skills

Fieldwork coordination

Education

BSc / BTech in Zoology, Ecology, or a related field

Tools

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

Job title : Field Research Assistant - Department of Virology - Faculty of Health Sciences

Job Location : Gauteng, Pretoria Deadline : August 25, 2025

Responsibilities include:

1. Preparing for fieldwork, including generating and verifying inventories, stock taking, and restocking of fieldwork consumables;
2. Ensuring all equipment is clean and in working condition;
3. Coordinating packing and unpacking of field equipment and supplies at campus and in the field;
4. Overseeing maintenance, cleaning, and disinfection of all field equipment;
5. Assisting with procurement of field equipment and supplies;
6. Coordinating accommodation and food for field visits;
7. Managing the maintenance and use of off-field vehicles and trailers according to UP policies;
8. Overseeing field storerooms and keeping inventories up to date.

Fieldwork activities related to collecting data and samples from animals include:

1. Participating in all fieldwork activities;
2. Reviewing data sheets for accuracy;
3. Completing environmental, site, and climate data;
4. Collecting environmental samples from bat roosts;
5. Gathering climate data;
6. Tracking animal movement data;
7. Coordinating disinfection of biohazardous equipment and supplies;
8. Managing waste related to fieldwork;
9. Returning samples to biobanks post-collection;
10. Entering all field data into databases;
11. Collecting biological samples from small mammals;
12. Gathering morphometric data from small mammals.

Administrative duties include:

1. Providing training to staff and students as needed;
2. Assisting with the administration of fieldwork SOPs (formatting, updating, editing);
3. Supporting environmental and ecological data analysis;
4. Assisting with research reports and grant applications;
5. Preparing permits and regulatory documentation.

Minimum requirements:

• BSc / BTech in Zoology, Ecology, or a related field;
• Experience with mammals, trapping, handling methods, and fieldwork coordination;
• Proficiency in Excel and statistical analysis tools;
• Valid driver’s license;
• SAVC registration;
• Experience in research/data analysis roles.