Senior Research Technologist : Laboratory Assistant

The South African Medical Research Council; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical research institution in Western Cape, Cape Town is seeking a Senior Research Technologist to provide general laboratory maintenance and support. The role requires a BSc or BTech in Molecular Biology or related field, with hands-on experience in IHC staining and molecular biology techniques. Ideal candidates will have good laboratory practices knowledge and an understanding of quality control within a lab. This position offers a unique opportunity to assist in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years’ hands-on experience in IHC staining.
• 1-2 years’ hands-on experience in RNA and DNA isolation.
• Understanding of quality control within a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• General laboratory maintenance and support to staff and students.
• Manage biohazardous and chemical waste removal from laboratories.
• Record and compile quality control data.

Skills

IHC staining

Molecular biology techniques

Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)

Experimental record maintenance

Education

BSc or BTech in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science or similar

Job description

Overview

Job title: Senior Research Technologist : Laboratory Assistant

Job Location: Western Cape, Cape Town

Deadline: October 14, 2025

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Responsibilities

• General laboratory maintenance and support to staff and students, including IHC laboratory stock inventory, record keeping, and preparation of basic solutions for the laboratory
• Wash and autoclave laboratory glassware and consumables.
• Manage biohazardous and chemical waste removal from laboratories and for collection by waste companies in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Managing the chemical store and supply to the laboratory when required
• Monitoring and maintaining CO2 and Liquid nitrogen tanks for the laboratory
• Assist researchers and postgraduate students in obtaining liquid nitrogen and dry ice
• Maintain laboratory stock, monitor reagents, and assist with inventory reports and quarterly stocktakes.
• Perform routine laboratory procedures, including tissue embedding, sectioning of FFPE and cryo blocks, and IHC staining, following established protocols.
• Assist with DNA / RNA isolation from biological samples under supervision.
• Support staff and students in experimental animal studies
• Collect, transport, and log laboratory and wastewater samples
• Record and compile quality control data and routine laboratory reports.
• Assist the laboratory manager with SOP compliance and quarterly health and safety inspections.

Core Requirements

• BSc or BTech in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science or similar qualification
• 1-2 years’ hands-on experience in IHC staining
• 1-2 years’ hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, including RNA and DNA isolation
• Familiar with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Maintaining experimental records (lab book) and working with protocols and SOPs
• Understanding of quality control within a laboratory setting
• Valid Code B driver’s licence and ability to travel for sample collection and site activities

Advantageous

• BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology or related field
• Hands-on experience in immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis.
• Hands-on experience in sample management and handling of biological specimens
• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance, including cleaning and autoclaving of glassware, and adherence to occupational health and safety protocols
• Experience in handling chemicals, biohazardous materials, and biological specimens.
• Experience of working in a GLP or SANAS-accredited laboratory or similar environment
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