Research Technician - FRESH at Health Systems Trust

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Research and Experimental Work

• Perform experiments analysing microbial and tissue samples from human subjects in tissue culture hoods, assessing the impact of the microbiome and HIV infection on cervicovaginal mucosal health.
• Perform and assist with experiments involving bacteriology, immunologic assays, microscopy, and molecular biology.
• Read and interpret current literature to aid in experimental design.

Laboratory Operations and Quality Assurance

• Store biological samples and products properly and maintain sample-tracking databases.
• Maintain lab equipment, including calibrating, cleaning and troubleshooting instruments, and monitoring temperature logs for freezers and fridges.
• Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents, and cellular components.
• Ensure compliance with safety and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) procedures.

Data Analysis, Documentation and Reporting

• Analyse data and present findings to others.
• Maintain detailed documentation of experimental work.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely within the group and with outside collaborators.
• Maintain close communication with supervisors regarding progress.

REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications

• BSc (Honours) degree in biology, microbiology, computational biology, biological engineering, ecology, or similar required

Experience and competencies

• Hands-on experience in general cellular biology techniques
• Minimum one-year experience working in a biomedical research laboratory (time spent in a lab towards completion of an Honours degree is considered)
• Familiarity with biomedical research laboratory procedures and safety requirements
• Good computer literacy (Microsoft Office)