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

Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will provide technical support to research projects and laboratory activities, including:

• Performing routine cell culture procedures and maintaining immortalised cell lines under BSL-1 and BSL-2 conditions.
• Supporting research projects through cell-based assays and optimisation of routine endpoint assays using established protocols.
• Preparing reagents, buffers, and laboratory solutions required for experimental work.
• Maintaining accurate laboratory records, experimental documentation, and quality control data.
• Ensuring the cell culture laboratories remain clean, organised, and compliant with GLP and laboratory safety regulations.
• Assisting researchers and postgraduate students with technical laboratory procedures and experimental workflows.
• Supporting the implementation of SOPs and routine laboratory quality assurance processes.

Requirements

Core requirements:

• BSc or BTech in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science or similar qualification
• 2 -3 years’ hands-on experience in cell culture and aseptic technique under BSL1 and 2 laboratory settings
• Proficiency in molecular and culturing various primary and secondary cell lines
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Maintaining experimental records (lab book) with accuracy and working with protocols and SOP’s
• Stock and reagent maintenance and logging
• 2-3 years’ experience in training staff and students in aseptic technique
• Understanding of quality control processes within a laboratory setting
• Proficient in MS Office for data recording and reporting.
• 2-3 years’ experience with basic cell culture end-point assay optimization and routine screening using established protocols

Advantages:

• BSc (Hons) in Molecular Biology or related field
• Experience with isolating and culturing primary cell cultures
• Experience with techniques such as DNA, RNA extraction, qPCR, or ELISA
• 1 -2 years’ hands-on experience in under BSL2 laboratory settings
• Experience of working in a GLP-accredited laboratory or similar environment

Closing Date:

23 April 2026