FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES
SENIOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANT (UPGL LABORATORY) (ONE YEAR FIXED TERM CONTRACT FOR 25 HOURS PER WEEK)
PEROMNES POST LEVEL 10
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.
Responsibilities
The incumbent will be responsible for:
- Preparation of sequencing libraries for all samples to be sequenced on the Oxford Nanopore Technologies platform (ONT);
- Loading of flow cells and setting up of the PromethION and MinION Instruments to analyse the prepared samples, as well as running and monitoring the instruments;
- Accurate sample quality control before and during library preparation and sequencing;
- Accurate recording and reporting of all laboratory procedures, as well as reagents and consumables used during the workflow for each sample processed;
- Proper storage and handling of all samples, reagents and consumables at all times;
- Careful management of reagent and consumable levels, and timely order requisition for all required reagents and consumables;
- Assisting with data management on sequencing computers;
- Cleaning and setting up of all equipment used in the ONT workflow;
- General laboratory maintenance of the UPGL laboratories. This includes very strict contamination control in potential cross contamination hotspots;
- Communication with clients regarding their samples and progress of the workflow when required;
- Assisting in basic project planning;
- DNA isolations for method development projects of the UPGL;
- Keeping up to date with the latest development in the ONT community and the NGS space in general;
- Optimising new protocols when required;
- Own time management within allocated project delivery times;
- Deliver good quality data on time;
- Active contribution in workshops hosted by the UPGL.
- BSc (Hons) in a Biological Sciences discipline with MSc exam copies submitted for examination;
- At least two (2) years experience in Molecular Biology obtained during postgraduate studies.
- Proficient in common molecular biology techniques:
- Accurate pipetting;
- DNA isolation for NGS sequencing;
- PCR;
- DNA ligation;
- DNA electrophoresis;
- DNA QC;
- Meticulous attention to detail with good documentation skills;
- Proven troubleshooting skills in molecular biology;
- A self-motivated person with the ability to manage time effectively;
- Must be reliable and must have the ability to work accurately while under pressure;
- Must have the ability to troubleshoot potential problems in the ONT sequencing workflow;
- Good interpersonal relationship skills;
- Proven competency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- MSc in a Biological Sciences discipline;
- Extensive practical experience in DNA based molecular biology techniques;
- Presentation at workshops and training events;
- Previous NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) library building and DNA sequencing experience;
- Experience in high molecular weight DNA isolation.
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 comprehensive CV;
- Certified copies of qualifications;
- Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.
Enquiries
Ms M Huma Tel: (012) 420 5760 Email: mokopa.huma@up.ac.za for application-related enquiries, and Dr N Olivier Tel: (012) 420 4239 Email: nicky.olivier@up.ac.za, for enquiries relating to the post content.
Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 November 2024, 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. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.
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.
