• General – Providing essential logistical and administrative support to research teams and scientists; assist in general job flow in the section; attendance of weekly divisional meeting.
• Laboratory management – Organise research materials, maintain equipment.
• Weighing chemicals and prepare solutions.
• Prepare glass and plastic-ware using specialized techniques.
• Cleaning of glassware and conduct sterilisation procedures.
• Calibrate and maintain lab equipment.
• Conduct regular independent inspections and monitoring certain consumable stock such as pipette tips, microcentrifuge tubes, cleaning agents and chemicals.
• Monitoring of equipment usage, status and calibration data.
• Timeous reporting of malfunctioning equipment etc.
• Health and safety— Compliance with general health and safety regulations (demonstrate visible use of safety equipment)
• Viral diagnostics – Prepare samples for the specified research analysis i.e., plant and soil samples or virus samples under supervision; assist with processing of samples brought for testing in the virology laboratory.

Requirements:

• A National Diploma, BTech Degree in any scientist field such as;-
  • Plant Pathology,
  • Molecular Biology
  • Or related fields.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to organise, priorities and work systematically.
• Prior experience of laboratory, glasshouse and tunnel facilities and advantage.
• Driver’s license 08/EB driver.

How to Apply for Agricultural Research Council-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP): Virology Research Support Assistant

Click here to apply online for Virology Research Support Assistant Permanent Position

Enquiries: Dr Lindy Esterhuizen, Tel: (012) 808-8196

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 21 FEBRUARY 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.