Intern (40 hours per week) (contract appointment: 1 year) (1 position per research group) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Engage in structured wet and dry lab (Bioinformatics) genomic training.
• Assist with the business onuses of the Unit when required.
• Assist with organising structured bioinformatics workshops.
• Provide training for visiting researchers and students when needed.
• Partake in research dissemination.

Inherent Job Requirements:

Intern in respiratory research group:

• Master’s degree on NQF Level 9 in Virology/ Microbiology /Molecular Biology, 

Intern in enteric research group:

• Honours degree on NQF Level 8 or Master’s degree on NQF Level 9 in Virology/ Microbiology/ Molecular Biology.

Recommendations:

• Previous experience in a molecular laboratory.
• Strong skills in deductive reasoning.
• Committed to support a friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Preference will be shown towards candidates with the described additional required skills.

The following criteria apply to the selection of candidates:

• Have not participated in any learnership / internship programme.
• Willing to sign an internship agreement with the UFS.
• Not studying full-time/ classes must be after normal working hours.
• No formal work experience.

Competencies

Key Competencies Required: 

Results orientated:

• The ability to maintain composure and self-control.

Strategic thinking:

• The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organized manner.
• The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
• The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
• The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

Business acumen:

• Ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.

Intern in Respiratory Research Group:

• Background knowledge of respiratory viruses (more importantly Respiratory syncytial virus
• Previous experience on whole genome sequencing of RSV.
• Previous experience on using several bioinformatic tools in the analysis of RSV data.
• Previous experience in community and hospital-based research.
• Previous experience in an administrative role.
• Intern in Enteric Research Group:
• Background knowledge of enteric viruses (more importantly Rotavirus)
• Previous experience on NGS
• Previous experience on using several bioinformatic tools in the analysis of Rotavirus data.

Leading:

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display good-natured attitude, and encourage people to work together.

Building coalitions:

• The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.