Research Assistant: Covid19 Reverse Zoonoses Field - Pretoria, South Africa - University of Pretoria

University of Pretoria

Verified Company

Pretoria, South Africa

1 week ago

Posted by:

Thabo Mthembu

beBee Recruiter

Description

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

Trapping of rodents according to the project plan;
Transporting and supporting dissection at the veterinary pathology laboratory;
Handling and processing of clinical specimens;
Performing DNA/RNA extractions from NPS/blood/tissue under appropriate BSL2/3 conditions;
Performing molecularbased nucleic acid detection assays, sequencing and next generation/deep sequencing;
Performing tasks and procedures in accordance with the relevant SOPs and guidelines as laid out in the Health and Safety Manual;
Contributing to a safe and efficient laboratory working environment for research;
Monitoring and ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and ensuring preventive maintenance and repair agreements are in place to assist the Lab Manager;
Decontaminating and disposing of laboratory waste using both chemical and steam pressure methods;
Following all safety rules while on the job; reports accidents promptly and corrects minor safety hazards;
Safe and correct handling of infectious specimens within the BSL2 and BSL3 laboratory;
Assisting with writing up of results for publications and contributing to the research programme in the unit as requested by the head;
Generating monthly reports and weekly reporting to the Programme head or surveillance findings;
Writing up of surveillance results and contributing to the research programme in the unit as requested by the head;
Supporting Clinical site and ecological site management;
Supporting proper functioning of the BSL3 facility

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Honours degree in Zoology/Veterinary Science/Virology/molecular biology/Genetics or an equivalent;
One year experience in a medical or veterinary research laboratory setting;

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

Experience in field work including rodent capture and identification.
Molecular biology skills including RNA/DNA isolation, realtime PCR and sequencing
Genetic typing
Viral diagnostics: Realtime PCR, ELISA; Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.
Experience in working in a BSL2 laboratory.
Driver's license

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

MSc in Zoology/Veterinary Science/Virology/molecular biology/Genetics or an equivalent;
One year experience in dissection of rodents;
One year experience in working in a BSL3 lab

The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

A Cover letter, stating the reason for your interest and how you fit the position.
A comprehensive CV;

- _Period of Project: The project ends June 2024; extension will be dependent on continued funding and performance._

CLOSING DATE:
13 September 2023

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.