Research Assistant: Covid19 Reverse Zoonoses Field and Laboratory Studies - Department of Virology- Faculty of Health Sciences (1 ... - 25218

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UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF VIROLOGY

RESEARCH ASSISTANT: COVID19 REVERSE ZOONOSES FIELD AND LABORATORY STUDIES (1 YEAR CONTRACT)

PEROMNES POST LEVEL 11

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

We currently have an exciting position for a dynamic research assistant with experience in rodent ecology studies and molecular analysis. The candidate will participate in investigating zoonotic infections in rodents and other animals in the Tshwane region as part of investigations of the Origins of COVID19 variants of concern. The candidate will investigate the reverse zoonoses hypothesis. The project is funded through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Trapping of rodents according to the project plan;
• Transporting and supporting dissection at the veterinary pathology laboratory;
• Handling and processing of clinical specimens;
• Performing DNA/RNA extractions from NPS/blood/tissue under appropriate BSL2/3 conditions;
• Performing molecular-based nucleic acid detection assays, sequencing and next generation/deep sequencing;
• Performing tasks and procedures in accordance with the relevant SOPs and guidelines as laid out in the Health and Safety Manual;
• Contributing to a safe and efficient laboratory working environment for research;
• Monitoring and ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and ensuring preventive maintenance and repair agreements are in place to assist the Lab Manager;
• Decontaminating and disposing of laboratory waste using both chemical and steam pressure methods;
• Following all safety rules while on the job; reports accidents promptly and corrects minor safety hazards;
• Safe and correct handling of infectious specimens within the BSL2 and BSL3 laboratory;
• Assisting with writing up of results for publications and contributing to the research programme in the unit as requested by the head;
• Generating monthly reports and weekly reporting to the Programme head or surveillance findings;
• Writing up of surveillance results and contributing to the research programme in the unit as requested by the head;
• Supporting Clinical site and ecological site management;
• Supporting proper functioning of the BSL3 facility

Minimum Requirements

• Honours degree in Zoology/Veterinary Science/Virology/molecular biology/Genetics or an equivalent;
• One year experience in a medical or veterinary research laboratory setting;

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Experience in field work including rodent capture and identification.
• Molecular biology skills including RNA/DNA isolation, realtime PCR and sequencing
• Genetic typing
• Viral diagnostics: Realtime PCR, ELISA; Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.
• Experience in working in a BSL2 laboratory.
• Drivers license
• The candidate should either be a South African citizen or have permanent residency and a work visa and be able to start by September 2023.

Added Advantages And Preferences

• MSc in Zoology/Veterinary Science/Virology/molecular biology/Genetics or an equivalent;
• One year experience in dissection of rodents;
• One year experience in working in a BSL3 lab

The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbents level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: Careers@UP.

In Applying For This Post, Please Attach

• A Cover letter, stating the reason for your interest and how you fit the position.
• A comprehensive CV;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
• For postdoctoral candidates, please indicate this as your preference and include your academic record.
• Period of Project: The project ends June 2024; extension will be dependent on continued funding and performance.

CLOSING DATE: 13 September 2023

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Prof Marietjie Venter, Tel: (012) 3192638 or marietjie.venter@up.ac.za (please indicate Zoonoses research assistant in the title of your email) for enquiries relating to the post content and Mrs NA Mller, Tel: (012)012 356 3242 for application-related enquiries.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 November 2023, 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.