Scientist (S) (R786A) at The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

Responsibilities:

• Formulate research proposals and conduct/coordinate research projects independently
• Processing of biological samples including isolation of PBMCs and nucleic acids from nonhuman primates’ biological samples (blood, tissues and stool)
• Implementation of tissue culture methods including propagation and titration of SIV/SHIV and other BSL-2 pathogens of research interest
• Successful execution of a variety of immunological assays (e.g. Elispot, ELISA), parasitological tests (e.g. Kato-Katz), molecular biology methods (e.g. Real time PCR) and other relevant laboratory assays of research interest
• Ensure accuracy and precision of laboratory results and procedures during pre-analytical, analytical and post analytical.
• Ensure SAMRC policies and unit operational protocols are observed, understood and implemented
• Work with statistical and bioinformatics software packages e.g. GraphPad Prism, MedCalc, ClustalW, or R
• Presentation at local and international conferences, workshops, seminars and research related meetings
• Produce and submit research outputs/articles to peer-reviewed international journals for publication
• Collaborate with other researchers, providing laboratory expertise, and ensuring publications adhere to scientific standards and best practices.
• Provide technical and laboratory research support to scientists and PUDAC’s clients
• Provide technical and scientific training to junior staff and PUDAC-hosted postgraduate students
• Assist in managing all operational aspects of the molecular and immunology laboratories, including procurement and management of laboratory kits, consumables and stock inventory
• Assist PUDAC with servicing of laboratory equipment, SCM/HR/IT/Risk & Asset/Finance related matters and ordering of goods through JDE

Core Requirements:

• Master of Science (MSc genetics)
• At least 3-5 years' experience in using nonhuman primates (NHPs) as a research model
• Experience in providing support in molecular biology, genetics and immunology/virology and assist in managing the sufficient operation of laboratories
• Evidence of scientific outputs in form of published articles in peer-reviewed international journals and presentations in scientific conferences
• Exposure in data management, analysis, interpretation and presentation
• Collection and storage of biological samples and quality control
• Bioinformatics tools implementation
• Willing to undergo regular TB testing and required health checks

Advantageous:

• Exposure to laboratory research environment using nonhuman primate models and coordination of projects
• Knowledge/experience in molecular, immunology and virology assay workflows
• Experience working in an animal laboratory environment.
• 3-5 years’ practical experience with basic immunology and molecular biology techniques including PBMCs, protein and RNA isolation, ELISA, cell culture, cheminformatics and PCR
• Demonstrate communication, presentation, reporting and writing skills