Research Technician: Laboratory Assistant at The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

Responsibilities:

• Cleaning of laboratories, storeroom, fridges, cupboards, equipment, floor and drawers in all laboratories.
• Disinfection of laboratory working areas.
• Sealing and storage of waste boxes prior to collection by waste company.
• Collection of glassware from all training laboratories.
• Washing, drying and autoclaving of all glassware.
• Proper storage of clean glassware.
• Assist CATIR staff with the Identification of expired reagents, buffers and chemicals for disposal by the contracted waste company.
• General assistance with all laboratory activities where applicable.
• On-going support of colleagues and students on research procedures and/or laboratory techniques
• Accurately log and maintain laboratory data in manual and electronic systems
• Perform correct sample logging, labeling, and tracking to ensure traceability
• Maintain complete, legible, and timely laboratory records in line with documentation standards
• Ensure data integrity by adhering to quality control and record-keeping procedures
• Report and correct documentation errors in accordance with laboratory protocols

Core Requirements:

• Grade 10
• 3-4 years’ hands-on experience assisting with daily laboratory operations and sample processing
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, centrifugation, microscopy, pH testing)
• 3-4 years’ practical experience in operating standard laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, microscopes, and autoclaves
• 3-4 years’ experience maintaining laboratory cleanliness and adhering to sterility and safety standards
• 3-4 years’ working knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, PPE use, and waste disposal regulations
• Exposure to inventory management, stock control, and laboratory supply handling
• 3-4 years’ experience supporting senior laboratory technicians or scientists during testing and experiments
• Experience in preparing laboratory equipment, instruments, and workstations for daily testing

 Advantageous:

• Experience of working in a SANAS-accredited laboratory or similar environment 

Closing:

17 April 2026