Technical Assistant

University Of Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution seeks a laboratory assistant to maintain equipment, support research, and assist in practical classes in Pretoria. Candidates should hold a BSc Honours in Physiology and have relevant research experience. Skills in laboratory techniques, presentation, and computer usage are vital. The role offers a comprehensive remuneration package, and preference is given to candidates from designated groups as per equity policies.

Benefits

50% contribution to medical aid premiums

Qualifications

• 2 years research experience with exposure to laboratory techniques in physiology.
• Teaching experience and managing of laboratories is an added advantage.

Responsibilities

• Maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Provide research support and execute experiments.
• Collect and process research data.
• Organise and present student practical classes.
• Mark assignments and process student marks.
• Support community service projects and administrative tasks.

Skills

Research knowledge

Database searches

Presentation skills

Laboratory techniques and safety procedures

Computer skills including MS Office and statistical analysis

Appropriate language and communication skills

Precise and accurate

Good interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently

Education

BSc Honours degree in Physiology

MSc degree in Physiology

Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintaining laboratory instruments / equipment and facilities
• Providing research support, planning and execution of experiments in conjunction with project leaders
• Collecting and processing of research data
• Organising, assisting and presentation of student practical classes
• Marking of assignments / worksheets / practical tests
• Processing of student marks
• Contribute to community service projects
• General administrative- and finances system support in the Department

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• BSc Honours degree in Physiology
• 2 years research experience with exposure to a variety of laboratory techniques relating to physiology, biochemistry and cell culture

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES)

• Research knowledge
• Database searches
• Presentation skills
• Laboratory techniques and safety procedures
• Computer skills including MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point), email, internet, reference management program e.g. Endnote and a statistical analysis program
• Appropriate language and communication skills
• Precise and accurate
• Good interpersonal skills and co‑operation with all staff
• Ability to work independently and to use own initiative

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES

• MSc degree in Physiology
• Teaching experience
• Managing of laboratories
• Previous work experience as a technical / laboratory assistant

PLEASE NOTE

All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process. The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online. In applying for this post, please attach a comprehensive CV; certified copies of qualifications; names, e‑mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE : 22 October

• No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.
• If you do not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 December, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.
• The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under‑represented designated groups. All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.
• By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.
• The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.