Work Experience Intern at Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI)

Description: 

• The Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is seeking a highly motivated Work Experience Intern to the Sigal Lab based at AHRI-Durban campus. The Sigal Lab is a virology research group focused on understanding viruses with pandemic potential, including Mpox (MPXV), Chikungunya, Dengue, and Rift Valley fever virus. Our work explores how the immune system responds to infection, examines viral transmission, and disease severity especially in the context of HIV and immunocompromised individuals.
• This 3-month internship provides an observational learning opportunity for individuals interested in virology, immunology, and infectious disease research. The incumbent will gain exposure to key various laboratory practices, assist with basic tasks under supervision and participate in lab meetings and discussions to deepen their understanding of ongoing scientific work.

Overview of Duties:

• Asist with day-to-day activities and housekeeping of laboratory
• Organize and prepare biological samples and reagents for experiments
• Assist with temperature monitoring and maintenance of equipment
• Assist with waste management according to laboratory procedures
• Record experimental data accurately and maintain detailed laboratory notebooks
• Assist with data analysis and provide support during experimental procedures

Minimum Qualifications

• BSc Hons/BTech degree or equivalent in a Life sciences field.
• Highly proficient with computers with working knowledge of MS Office.

Minimum Experience

• Ability to perform simple calculations (dilutions, concentrations, etc).
• Basic understanding of laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with general lab safety practices.
• Computer literacy and working knowledge of Microsoft Office software.

Knowledge and Abilities  

• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn in a research environment.
• Good organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.

Advantageous

• Interest in virology, immunology, or biomedical research is a plus.
• Previous exposure to laboratory environments or techniques (e.g., cell culture, serology).
• Basic understanding of human biology or infectious disease concepts.